---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Work is its own best earthly meed, Else…"
description: "\"Work is its own best earthly meed, Else have we none more than the sea-born throng Who wrought those marvellous isles that bloom afar.\" — Jean Ingelow"
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/c20/jean-ingelow-13712_afar_work-is-its-own-best-earthly-meed-else-h_331644.png"
---

#  Work is its own best earthly meed, Else have we none more…

![“Work is its own best earthly meed, Else have we none more than the sea-born throng Who wrought those marvellous isles that bloom afar.” quote by Jean Ingelow](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/c20/jean-ingelow-13712_afar_work-is-its-own-best-earthly-meed-else-h_331644.png)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/c20/jean-ingelow-13712_afar_work-is-its-own-best-earthly-meed-else-h_331644.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/c20/jean-ingelow-13712_afar_work-is-its-own-best-earthly-meed-else-h_331644.png)

> “Work is its own best earthly meed, Else have we none more than the sea-born throng Who wrought those marvellous isles that bloom afar.”

[Jean Ingelow](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/jean-ingelow/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Labor provides essential sustenance, surpassing even the most abundant natural wonders.

**In simple terms:** Work is the best nourishment, more than any sea-born marvel.

Key Takeaway

Value work as a source of sustenance and meaning.

Themes

labor gratitude abundance

Mood

thoughtful grounded inspirational

Type

literary reflective

When to use this quote

- career development
- financial planning
- community service
- personal growth

Key Concepts

economics philosophy nature metaphor

Questions to Reflect On

- How can you balance work with rest?
- What does “earthly meed” mean in modern life?

A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on work can neglect leisure and health.

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[Marvellous](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/marvellous/) [Sea](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/sea/) [Work](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/work/)

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