Prostrate on earth the bleeding warrior lies, And Isr'el's…
“Prostrate on earth the bleeding warrior lies, And Isr'el's beauty on the mountains dies. How are the mighty fallen! Hush'd be my sorrow, gently fall my tears, Lest my sad tale should reach the alien's ears: Bid Fame be dumb, and tremble to proclaim In heathen Gath, or Ascalon, our shame Lest proud Philistia, lest our haughty foe, With impious scorn insult our solemn woe.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A warrior reflects on the loss of beauty and fame after battle, pleading for silence to avoid further sorrow and shame.
In simple terms: War brings loss of beauty and fame; silence can protect from shame.
Key Takeaway
Seek humility and quiet after conflict.
Themes
war
loss
silence
shame
humility
Mood
somief
reflective
solemn
Type
historical
lamentative
When to use this quote
- post‑battle reflection
- memorial poetry
- cultural lament
- personal grief
Key Concepts
tragic heroism
historical lament
oral tradition
Questions to Reflect On
- How does silence affect collective memory?
- When is it right to speak of loss?
A Different Perspective
Silence may suppress necessary truth and healing.