This to hear Would Desdemona seriously incline: But still…
““This to hear Would Desdemona seriously incline: But still the house-affairs would draw her thence: Which ever as she could with haste dispatch, She'ld come again, and with a greedy ear Devour up my discourse: which I observing, Took once a pliant hour, and found good means To draw from her a prayer of earnest heart That I would all my pilgrimage dilate, Whereof by parcels she had something heard, But not intentively: I did consent, And often did beguile her of her tears, When I did speak of some distressful stroke That my youth suffer'd. My story being done, She gave me for my pains a world of sighs: She swore, in faith, twas strange, 'twas passing strange, 'Twas pitiful, 'twas wondrous pitiful: She wish'd she had not heard it, yet she wish'd That heaven had made her such a man: she thank'd me, And bade me, if I had a friend that loved her, I should but teach him how to tell my story. And that would woo her. Upon this hint I spake: She loved me for the dangers I had pass'd, And I loved her that she did pity them. This only is the witchcraft I have used: Here comes the lady; let her witness it.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A speaker describes using emotional storytelling to win a woman's sympathy and love, portraying his hardships as a kind of persuasive magic.
In simple terms: He tells a sad story to gain affection.
Key Takeaway
Use honest vulnerability to connect.
Themes
empathy
storytelling
persuasion
romance
Mood
reflective
hopeful
introspective
Type
literary
dramatic
romantic
When to use this quote
- courtship
- conflict resolution
- personal healing
Key Concepts
narrative therapy
emotional intelligence
social influence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can honesty be balanced with manipulation?
- When does sharing pain become self‑serving?
A Different Perspective
Reliance on pity can manipulate rather than build genuine trust.