Therefore, to be possess'd with double pomp, To guard a…
“Therefore, to be possess'd with double pomp, To guard a title that was rich before, To gild refined gold, to paint the lily, To throw a perfume on the violet, To smooth the ice, or add another hue Unto the rainbow, or with taper-light To seek the beauteous eye of heaven to garnish, Is wasteful and ridiculous excess.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Excessive embellishment and unnecessary adornment waste effort and diminish true value.
In simple terms: Avoid needless excess.
Key Takeaway
Focus on essential beauty.
Themes
aesthetics
moderation
value
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- design
- writing
- fashion
- interior décor
Key Concepts
literary criticism
philosophy of art
Questions to Reflect On
- When is ornamentation appropriate?
- How to balance simplicity and richness?
A Different Perspective
Sometimes minimalism can appear bland.