I am made to sow the thistle for wheat; the nettle for a…
““I am made to sow the thistle for wheat; the nettle for a nourishing dainty I have planted a false oath in the earth, it has brought forth a poison tree I have chosen the serpent for a councellor & the dog for a schoolmaster to my children I have blotted out from light & living the dove & the nightingale And I have caused the earthworm to beg from door to door I have taught the thief a secret path into the house of the just I have taught pale artifice to spread his nets upon the morning My heavens are brass my earth is iron my moon a clod of clay My sun a pestilence burning at noon & a vapor of death in night””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker describes planting harmful ideas and corrupt influences, turning nature and morality into poison and decay.
In simple terms: Bad ideas corrupt everything.
Key Takeaway
Guard against toxic thoughts.
Themes
morality
corruption
nature
spiritual decay
Mood
somber
introspective
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- social critique
- environmental ethics
Key Concepts
symbolism
poetry
dualism
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal “poison trees” have you nurtured?
- How can you replace harmful influences with positive ones?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may oversimplify complex moral issues.