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... But a coarse old man am I, I choose the second-best, I…

“... But a coarse old man am I, I choose the second-best, I forget it all awhile Upon a woman's breast. Day-break and a candle end.” quote by William Butler Yeats
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“... But a coarse old man am I, I choose the second-best, I forget it all awhile Upon a woman's breast. Day-break and a candle end.”

William Butler Yeats

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 admits to choosing mediocrity, forgetting past choices, and finding solace in intimate moments despite life's hardships.

In simple terms: He settles for less, finds comfort in love.

Key Takeaway

Embrace simple joys amid imperfection.

Themes

love imperfection acceptance

Mood

melancholic contemplative

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • creative writing
  • self‑reflection
  • grief coping
  • daily rituals

Key Concepts

mediocrity memory intimacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “second‑best” mean for you?
  • How do intimate moments offset life's challenges?
A Different Perspective

May romanticize suffering as noble.

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