Careless Quote by Robert Herrick
“A careless shoe string, in whose tie I see a wilde civility.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Book of the Counterfeit” (1621)
The line juxtaposes a trivial object (shoe string) with a noble quality (civility), suggesting modest things can reflect refinement.
In simple terms: Small things can show great civility.
Key Takeaway
Notice refinement in everyday details.
Themes
humor
contradiction
refinement
Mood
playful
contemplative
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- fashion critique
- social etiquette
- creative writing
- art criticism
Key Concepts
symbolism
paradox
Questions to Reflect On
- What everyday objects reveal your values?
- How does humor expose social norms?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may be obscure to modern readers.
