Be wise as thou art cruel, do not press My tongue-tied…
“Be wise as thou art cruel, do not press My tongue-tied patience with too much disdain: Lest sorrow lend me words and words express, The manner of my pity-wanting pain.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Excessive cruelty can suppress patience, leading to sorrowful expressions of pity that become painful.
In simple terms: Cruelty hinders patience and fuels sorrow.
Balance kindness with firmness.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- leadership decisions
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When does kindness become weakness?
- How to express pity without self‑harm?
Too much restraint can cause emotional bottling.