Alas Quote by Abraham Cowley
“Why dost thou heap up wealth, which thou must quit, Or what is worse, be left by it? Why dost thou load thyself when thou 'rt to fly, Oh, man! ordain'd to die? Why dost thou build up stately rooms on high, Thou who art under ground to lie? Thou sow'st and plantest, but no fruit must see, For death, alas! is reaping thee.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: The Paradox of Wealth, 1650s
Wealth is temporary; we cannot take it beyond death, so hoarding it is futile.
In simple terms: Wealth cannot be taken after death.
Key Takeaway
Focus on lasting values, not material accumulation.
Themes
mortality
wealth
vanity
Mood
reflective
somber
Type
philosophical
poetic
When to use this quote
- financial planning
- legacy building
- spiritual reflection
Key Concepts
ephemerality
human condition
Questions to Reflect On
- What truly endures beyond life?
- How can one balance material needs with spiritual awareness?
A Different Perspective
Wealth may provide comfort but cannot prevent mortality.
