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But thoughts the slave of life, and life, Time’s fool, And…

“But thoughts the slave of life, and life, Time’s fool, And Time, that takes survey of all the world, Must have a stop.” quote by William Shakespeare
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““But thoughts the slave of life, and life, Time’s fool, And Time, that takes survey of all the world, Must have a stop.””

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.

Life and time are fleeting; even the relentless passage of time will eventually cease.

In simple terms: Time will stop, ending life’s slave.

Key Takeaway

Accept life’s impermanence and act wisely.

Themes

mortality philosophy time

Mood

melancholic reflective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • end‑of‑life planning
  • legacy projects
  • mindfulness practice

Key Concepts

impermanence fate human condition

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does acknowledging mortality shape your choices?
  • What does “Time’s fool” mean to you?
A Different Perspective

The notion of time stopping is metaphorical.

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