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Death Quote by Ruth Pitter

“Vain vision! when the changing world each day Sees some such lordly pleasance pass away; When the mere stripling knows my symbols all Worn tokes, heaven hypothetical, Nature indifferent, and the dreams of men Figments of longing which we must condemn. Yet keep these plants, O Man! a kinder time…” quote by Ruth Pitter
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“Vain vision! when the changing world each day Sees some such lordly pleasance pass away; When the mere stripling knows my symbols all Worn tokes, heaven hypothetical, Nature indifferent, and the dreams of men Figments of longing which we must condemn. Yet keep these plants, O Man! a kinder time May yet be moved by them to better rhyme, Or moved, like me, to place his pleasure low, On the firm Earth, whence Men and Blossoms grow.”

Ruth Pitter

About This Quote

Source Poem: “Vain Vision” published in *The Poetry Review*, 1934

The poem laments fleeting beauty and human longing, urging preservation of nature’s modest gifts.

In simple terms: Nature’s beauty fades; we must cherish it.

Key Takeaway

Value and protect simple natural wonders.

Themes

nature impermanence human longing

Mood

nostalgic thoughtful

Type

poetic environmental

When to use this quote

  • gardening
  • conservation projects
  • creative writing
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

transience environmental ethics artistic expression

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance ambition with reverence for nature?
  • What small actions can honor the earth?
A Different Perspective

Human desire can distort appreciation of nature’s subtlety.

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