Allegory Quote by William Butler Yeats
“A symbol is indeed the only possible expression of some invisible essence, a transparent lamp about a spiritual flame; while allegory is one of many possible representations of an embodied thing, or familiar principle, and belongs to fancy and not to imagination: the one is a revelation, the other an amusement.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: The Second Coming, 1919
Symbols convey hidden truths directly, while allegories offer indirect, imaginative representations; one reveals, the other entertains.
In simple terms: Symbols reveal hidden meaning; allegories entertain.
Key Takeaway
Use symbols for deep expression.
Themes
symbolism
interpretation
art
philosophy
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- poetry analysis
- teaching literature
- creative writing
Key Concepts
revelation
imagination
representation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you decide when to use a symbol vs an allegory?
- What hidden essence does your symbol convey?
A Different Perspective
Allegories can also reveal truths, not just amuse.
