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They met me in the day of success: and I have learned by…

“They met me in the day of success: and I have learned by the perfectest report, they have more in them than mortal knowledge. When I burned in desire to question them further, they made themselves air, into which they vanished. Whiles I stood rapt in the wonder of it, came missives from the king…” quote by William Shakespeare
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““They met me in the day of success: and I have learned by the perfectest report, they have more in them than mortal knowledge. When I burned in desire to question them further, they made themselves air, into which they vanished. Whiles I stood rapt in the wonder of it, came missives from the king, who all-hailed me 'Thane of Cawdor;' by which title, before, these weird sisters saluted me, and referred me to the coming on of time, with 'Hail, king that shalt be!' This have I thought good to deliver thee, my dearest partner of greatness, that thou mightst not lose the dues of rejoicing, by being ignorant of what greatness is promised thee. Lay it to thy heart, and farewell.””

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.

The witches hint at future greatness, urging Macbeth to seize destiny while warning of unknown forces.

In simple terms: Witches foretell destiny, urging action.

Key Takeaway

Heed warnings, pursue ambition wisely.

Themes

ambition prophecy fate power warning

Mood

foreboding intrigued reflective

Type

dramatic prophetic

When to use this quote

  • leadership decisions
  • career planning
  • risk assessment
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

supernatural psychology political intrigue

Questions to Reflect On

  • How will you balance ambition with humility?
  • What signs indicate true guidance?
A Different Perspective

The prophecy may mislead, causing overconfidence.

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