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Admire Quote by Thomas Hood

“Whoe'er has gone thro' London street, Has seen a butcher gazing at his meat, And how he keeps Gloating upon a sheep's Or bullock's personals, as if his own; How he admires his halves And quarters--and his calves, As if in truth upon his own legs grown.” quote by Thomas Hood
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“Whoe'er has gone thro' London street, Has seen a butcher gazing at his meat, And how he keeps Gloating upon a sheep's Or bullock's personals, as if his own; How he admires his halves And quarters--and his calves, As if in truth upon his own legs grown.”

Thomas Hood

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Butcher” from “Poems of the People”, 1845

The butcher boasts about his meat as if it were his own body, highlighting vanity and self‑importance.

In simple terms: Vanity makes people act as if everything belongs to them.

Key Takeaway

Recognize humility over pride.

Themes

vanity pride self‑importance materialism

Mood

wry thoughtful

Type

satire poetic

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • teaching humility
  • social critique

Key Concepts

literary satire social commentary

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does ownership of material goods say about self‑worth?
  • How can humility be cultivated?
A Different Perspective

The poem’s humor may downplay serious self‑absorption.

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