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Remorse, the fatal egg by pleasure laid, In every bosom…

“Remorse, the fatal egg by pleasure laid, In every bosom where her nest is made, Hatched by the beams of truth, denies him rest, And proves a raging scorpion in his breast.” quote by William Cowper
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“Remorse, the fatal egg by pleasure laid, In every bosom where her nest is made, Hatched by the beams of truth, denies him rest, And proves a raging scorpion in his breast.”

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.

Desire for pleasure can lead to remorse, as truth reveals inner turmoil like a scorpion.

In simple terms: Pleasure can cause painful guilt.

Key Takeaway

Beware of fleeting pleasures that haunt.

Themes

guilt truth desire

Mood

reflective somber

Type

philosophical poetic

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • personal decisions
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

moral conflict psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What hidden costs accompany your pleasures?
  • How can truth mitigate remorse?
A Different Perspective

Pleasure may be unavoidable in life.

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