Asylum Quote by Robert Frost
“The only asylum Was the poorhouse, and thosewho could afford, Rather than send their folks to such a place, Kept them at home; and it does seem more human. But it's not so: the place is theasylum. There they have every means proper to do with, And you aren't darkening other people's lives…”
About This Quote
Source Poem: The Poorhouse, 1923
The poorhouse served as an asylum; families kept relatives at home for humane reasons, though the institution itself was an asylum.
In simple terms: Poorhouses were asylums; families kept loved ones home.
Key Takeaway
Consider humane care alternatives.
Themes
poverty
care
humanity
institution
family
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
social
ethical
When to use this quote
- elder care
- mental health services
- family decisions
Key Concepts
social welfare
historical context
ethical care
Questions to Reflect On
- What are modern humane alternatives to poorhouses?
- How does family care impact wellbeing?
A Different Perspective
Institutional care may be dehumanizing.
