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Desire Quote by Francis Quarles

“He that discovers himself, till he hath made himself master of his desires, lays himself open to his own ruin, and makes himself prisoner to his own tongue.” quote by Francis Quarles
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“He that discovers himself, till he hath made himself master of his desires, lays himself open to his own ruin, and makes himself prisoner to his own tongue.”

Francis Quarles

About This Quote

Source Poem: The Moralities, 1648

Self‑mastery over desire prevents self‑destruction, while uncontrolled speech can imprison us.

In simple terms: Control desires, watch speech.

Key Takeaway

Master desires, guard words.

Themes

self‑control language consequences

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

philosophical advisory

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • relationships
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

Stoicism self‑discipline

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you notice when desire overtakes reason?
  • What habits keep your speech honest?
A Different Perspective

Even with mastery, external pressures can still cause ruin.

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