Fear Quote by Robert Burton
““When I lie waking all alone, Recounting what I have ill done, My thoughts on me then tyrannize, Fear and sorrow me surprise, Whether I tarry still or go, Methinks the time moves very slow, All my griefs to this are jolly, Naught so sad as melancholy. 'Tis my sole plague to be alone, I am a beast, a monster grown, I will no light nor company, I find it now my misery. The scene is turn'd, my joys are gone, Fear, discontent, and sorrows come. All my griefs to this are folly, Naught so fierce as melancholy.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: The Anatomy of Melancholy (excerpt), 1621
The speaker describes deep loneliness and melancholy, feeling trapped by thoughts that intensify sorrow, yet recognizes the futility of dwelling on it.
In simple terms: Loneliness fuels sorrow; acceptance is needed.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and move beyond melancholy.
Themes
loneliness
melancholy
self‑criticism
Mood
somber
introspective
Type
poetic
literary
When to use this quote
- nighttime reflection
- creative writing
- therapy sessions
- personal journaling
Key Concepts
existentialism
emotional turmoil
Questions to Reflect On
- What triggers your melancholy?
- Can you find moments of light amid darkness?
A Different Perspective
Over‑identifying with sorrow can deepen depression.
![“[E]very man hath liberty to write, but few ability. Heretofore learning was graced by judicious scholars, but now noble sciences are vilified by base and illiterate scribblers, that either write for vain-glory, need, to get money, or as Parasites to flatter and collogue with some great men, they…” quote by Robert Burton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/792/robert-burton-10069_books_e-very-man-hath-liberty-to-write-but-few_213260.jpg)
