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Your face, my thane, is as a book where men May read…

“Your face, my thane, is as a book where men May read strange matters. To beguile the time, Look like the time; bear welcome in your eye, Your hand, your tongue: look like the innocent flower, But be the serpent under't.” quote by William Shakespeare
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“Your face, my thane, is as a book where men May read strange matters. To beguile the time, Look like the time; bear welcome in your eye, Your hand, your tongue: look like the innocent flower, But be the serpent under't.”

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.

A lover is likened to a book, urging both innocence and cunning to navigate love’s complexities.

In simple terms: Love requires both openness and strategic deception.

Key Takeaway

Balance honesty with subtlety.

Themes

love deception trust strategy duality

Mood

thoughtful dramatic

Type

theatrical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • courtship
  • romantic intrigue
  • social maneuvering
  • personal insight

Key Concepts

literary metaphor psychology of relationships

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is strategic behavior justified in love?
  • How does vulnerability affect intimacy?
A Different Perspective

Overt manipulation can erode trust.

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