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Sea shell Quote by Virginia Woolf

“I am the guardian of the sleeping fawn; the snow is dear to me; and the moon rising; and the silver sea. With my robes I cover the speckled hen's eggs and the brindled sea shell, I cover vice and poverty. On all things frail or dark or doubtful, my veil descends. Wherefore, speak not, reveal not…” quote by Virginia Woolf
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““I am the guardian of the sleeping fawn; the snow is dear to me; and the moon rising; and the silver sea. With my robes I cover the speckled hen's eggs and the brindled sea shell, I cover vice and poverty. On all things frail or dark or doubtful, my veil descends. Wherefore, speak not, reveal not. Spare, O spare!””

Virginia Woolf

About This Quote

Source Poem: Unpublished verse, early 20th century, null

The speaker protects delicate and vulnerable things, shielding them from scrutiny and harm.

In simple terms: Guarding fragile things from harm.

Key Takeaway

Protect what is delicate.

Themes

protection vulnerability silence

Mood

reflective protective

Type

poetic metaphorical

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • environmental stewardship
  • mental health care
  • artistic creation

Key Concepts

symbolism metaphor guardianship

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are you shielding that needs exposure?
  • How does silence protect versus hinder?
A Different Perspective

The veil may also hide necessary truth or accountability.

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