Let fame, that all hunt after in their lives, Live…
“Let fame, that all hunt after in their lives, Live regist'red upon our brazen tombs And then grace us in the disgrace of death; When, spite of cormorant devouring Time, Th' endeavor of this present breath may buy That honor which shall bate his scythe's keen edge And make us heirs of all eternity.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Fame is fleeting; only death endures, and true honor lies beyond mortal life.
In simple terms: Fame fades, death lasts.
Key Takeaway
Seek lasting values over fleeting fame.
Themes
mortality
legacy
honor
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- political ambition
- personal reputation
- historical remembrance
Key Concepts
ephemeral fame
eternal legacy
Questions to Reflect On
- What legacy do you want to leave?
- How does fear of death shape behavior?
A Different Perspective
Fame can motivate harmful actions.