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Breaths Quote by Matthew Arnold

“The sea of faith Was once, too, at the full, and round earth's shore Lay like the folds of a bright girdle furled. But now I only hear Its melancholy, long, withdrawing roar, Retreating, to the breath Of the night-wind, down the vast edges drear And naked shingles of the world.” quote by Matthew Arnold
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“The sea of faith Was once, too, at the full, and round earth's shore Lay like the folds of a bright girdle furled. But now I only hear Its melancholy, long, withdrawing roar, Retreating, to the breath Of the night-wind, down the vast edges drear And naked shingles of the world.”

Matthew Arnold

About This Quote

Source Poem: “Dover Beach” by Matthew Arnold, 1867

The poet reflects on the loss of faith, describing a once‑full sea of belief now receding into melancholy.

In simple terms: Faith once full, now fading.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and accept changing beliefs.

Themes

faith loss nature melancholy

Mood

somber reflective

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • philosophical contemplation

Key Concepts

existentialism spiritual decline

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does faith mean to you now?
  • How do you cope with loss of certainty?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may be too abstract for practical guidance.

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