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Pernicious weed! whose scent the fair annoys, Unfriendly…

“Pernicious weed! whose scent the fair annoys, Unfriendly to society's chief joys: Thy worst effect is banishing for hours The sex whose presence civilizes ours.” quote by William Cowper
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“Pernicious weed! whose scent the fair annoys, Unfriendly to society's chief joys: Thy worst effect is banishing for hours The sex whose presence civilizes ours.”

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 poisonous weed disrupts society’s joy, likened to a sexual presence that civilizes humanity.

In simple terms: Weed harms joy, sex civilizes.

Key Takeaway

Recognize harmful influences.

Themes

society morality nature

Mood

critical analytical

Type

literary social

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • public health
  • education curricula

Key Concepts

philosophy social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What modern “weed” harms society?
  • How does intimacy shape civilization?
A Different Perspective

Metaphor may be obscure.

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