Better day Quote by Homer
““Now left to man's ingratitude he lay, Unhoused, neglected in the public way; And where on heaps the rich manure was spread, Obscene with reptiles, took his sordid bed. He knew his lord; he knew, and strove to meet; In vain he strove to crawl and kiss his feet; Yet (all he could) his tail, his tears, his eyes, Salute his master, and confess his joys. Soft pity touch'd the mighty master's soul; Adown his cheek a tear unbidden stole, Stole unperceived: he turn'd his head and dried The drop humane: then thus impassion'd cried: "What noble beast in this abandon'd state Lies here all helpless at Ulysses' gate? His bulk and beauty speak no vulgar praise: If, as he seems, he was in better days, Some care his age deserves; or was he prized For worthless beauty? therefore now despised; Such dogs and men there are, mere things of state; And always cherish'd by their friends, the great." "Not Argus so, (Eumaeus thus rejoin'd,) But served a master of a nobler kind, Who, never, never shall behold him more!””
About This Quote
Source Poem: Unknown source, possibly a modern reinterpretation of classical themes
The speaker laments a neglected, suffering creature that still shows devotion to its master, questioning the value of loyalty amidst neglect.
In simple terms: Even the downtrodden can be loyal.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and honor unseen devotion.
Themes
loyalty
neglect
compassion
humility
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
philosophical
poetic
When to use this quote
- animal welfare advocacy
- ethical treatment of servants
- reflecting on gratitude
- examining power dynamics
Key Concepts
servitude
suffering
recognition of worth
Questions to Reflect On
- What does loyalty mean when unreciprocated?
- How can we better care for the vulnerable?
A Different Perspective
The poem’s archaic language may obscure its relevance to modern readers.
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