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Had I the heavens' embroidered cloths, Enwrought with…

“Had I the heavens' embroidered cloths, Enwrought with golden and silver light, The blue and the dim and the dark cloths Of night and light and the half light, I would spread the cloths under your feet: But I, being poor, have only my dreams; I have spread my dreams under your feet; Tread softly…” quote by William Butler Yeats
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“Had I the heavens' embroidered cloths, Enwrought with golden and silver light, The blue and the dim and the dark cloths Of night and light and the half light, I would spread the cloths under your feet: But I, being poor, have only my dreams; I have spread my dreams under your feet; Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.”

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 poet offers a humble, dream‑filled offering, asking the beloved to tread gently on his fragile aspirations.

In simple terms: Dreams are precious; treat them with care.

Key Takeaway

Protect and cherish your dreams and those of others.

Themes

love humility dreams vulnerability artistry

Mood

gentle intimate

Type

poetic inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • creative expression
  • mental health
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

metaphor self‑sacrifice intimacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does it mean to “tread softly” in everyday life?
  • How can we balance vulnerability with strength?
A Different Perspective

Some may view the metaphor as overly romantic, neglecting practical concerns.

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