Arms Quote by John Donne
“Who ever comes to shroud me, do not harm Nor question much That subtle wreath of hair, which crowns my arm; The mystery, the sign you must not touch, For 'tis my outward soul, Viceroy to that, which then to heaven being gone, Will leave this to control, And keep these limbs, her provinces, from dissolution.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: Holy Sonnet XI, 1633
The poet warns that his physical body, especially his hair, is a sacred sign of his soul; harming it would be an attack on his very essence.
In simple terms: His body is a symbol of his soul, to be respected.
Key Takeaway
Protect the integrity of your inner self.
Themes
identity
vulnerability
respect
body
spirit
Mood
defensive
reflective
Type
poetic
metaphorical
When to use this quote
- personal boundaries
- self‑care
- protecting reputation
- handling criticism
Key Concepts
symbolism
metaphor
selfhood
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you protect your inner self from external harm?
- What symbols represent your core identity?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may be obscure to modern readers, limiting its impact.
![“Forgive me if, in friendship’s way, I offer thee a wreath of May… [N]ourished by the dews of heaven… So I have Ivy placed between, To prove that worth is ever green. The little blue Forget-me-not... Spring’s messenger in every spot, Smiling on all—"Remember me!” quote by John Clare](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/90f/john-clare-9982_blue_forgive-me-if-in-friendship-s-way-i-offe_142949.jpg)
