Breaths Quote by Jonathan Swift
“Come hither, all ye empty things, Ye bubbles rais'd by breath of Kings; Who float upon the tide of state, Come hither, and behold your fate. Let pride be taught by this rebuke, How very mean a thing's a Duke; From all his ill-got honours flung, Turn'd to that dirt from whence he sprung.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: The Battle of the Books, 1704
The poem mocks the vanity of those in power, showing how their lofty status can be reduced to dust and insignificance.
In simple terms: Powerful people are ultimately mortal and foolish.
Key Takeaway
Remember humility and the fleeting nature of status.
Themes
vanity
power
humility
mortality
Mood
cynical
reflective
Type
satirical
political
When to use this quote
- court intrigue
- political ambition
- public speeches
Key Concepts
satire
political commentary
Questions to Reflect On
- What does true greatness look like?
- How can we avoid the trap of pride?
A Different Perspective
Even the highest rank can be humbled by time and circumstance.
