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An old man, broken with the storms of state, Is come to…

“An old man, broken with the storms of state, Is come to lay his weary bones among ye; Give him a little earth for charity!” quote by William Shakespeare
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“An old man, broken with the storms of state, Is come to lay his weary bones among ye; Give him a little earth for charity!”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

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

A weary ruler, exhausted by political turmoil, seeks a modest burial and charity from the living.

In simple terms: An old king asks for a simple grave and kindness.

Key Takeaway

Offer respect and modest aid to those who have served.

Themes

mortality humility legacy

Mood

somber reflective

Type

literary historical

When to use this quote

  • funeral rites
  • historical remembrance
  • public charity

Key Concepts

political power aging human dignity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do societies honor aging leaders?
  • What responsibilities do we have to the vulnerable?
A Different Perspective

The quote may romanticize suffering, ignoring systemic causes of hardship.

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