Inspirational Quote by Percy Bysshe Shelley
““We look before and after, And pine for what is not: Our sincerest laughter With some pain is fraught; Our sweetest songs are those that tell Of saddest thought. Yet if we could scorn Hate, and pride, and fear; If we were things born Not to shed a tear, I know not how thy joy we ever Should come near.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “Love’s Philosophy” (excerpt), 1820
The poet reflects on longing, mixed emotions, and the paradox of joy and sorrow, urging release from hatred and pride.
In simple terms: Longing mixes joy and sorrow; release hatred for true joy.
Key Takeaway
Embrace humility and compassion.
Themes
longing
joy
anguish
humility
Mood
melancholic
hopeful
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- creative writing
- mental health coping
- relationship counseling
Key Concepts
existentialism
emotional duality
poetic irony
Questions to Reflect On
- Can you identify a joy that emerged after a painful experience?
- How does letting go of pride change your outlook?
A Different Perspective
Human emotions are complex; joy often follows sorrow, not before.
