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Forced from home, and all its pleasures, afric coast I…

“Forced from home, and all its pleasures, afric coast I left forlorn; to increase a stranger's treasures, o the raging billows borne. Men from England bought and sold me, paid my price in paltry gold; but, though theirs they have enroll'd me, minds are never to be sold.” quote by William Cowper
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“Forced from home, and all its pleasures, afric coast I left forlorn; to increase a stranger's treasures, o the raging billows borne. Men from England bought and sold me, paid my price in paltry gold; but, though theirs they have enroll'd me, minds are never to be sold.”

William Cowper

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A sailor leaves home, sells his labor for small pay, yet his mind remains unsold and free.

In simple terms: He trades labor but keeps his mind free.

Key Takeaway

Value intellectual freedom over material gain.

Themes

freedom labor value

Mood

reflective poetic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career choices
  • personal integrity
  • ethical decisions

Key Concepts

Independence self‑worth

Questions to Reflect On

  • What is more valuable: money or freedom?
  • How can one protect mental independence?
A Different Perspective

Material rewards may not compensate loss of autonomy.

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