Despair Quote by Emma Goldman
““THE BALLAD OF READING GOAL: The vilest deeds, like poison weeds, Bloom well in prison air; It is only what is good in Man That wastes and withers there. Pale Anguish keeps the heavy gate, And the Warder is Despair.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Ballad of Reading Goal” (unknown source)
The poem likens harmful actions to weeds thriving in confinement, while true goodness withers, and despair guards the gate.
In simple terms: Bad deeds flourish in prison; goodness dies.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how environments nurture vice.
Themes
morality
freedom
despair
Mood
somber
critical
Type
literary
political
When to use this quote
- prison reform
- education
- mental health
- social justice
- personal growth
Key Concepts
poetry
political critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “the warder” symbolize?
- Can good survive in oppressive systems?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may be obscure without context.
