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Destroy Quote by William Butler Yeats

“Should some limb of the devil Destroy the view by cutting down an ash That shades the road, or setting up a cottage Planned in a government office, shorten his life, Manacle his soul upon the Red Sea bottom.” quote by William Butler Yeats
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“Should some limb of the devil Destroy the view by cutting down an ash That shades the road, or setting up a cottage Planned in a government office, shorten his life, Manacle his soul upon the Red Sea bottom.”

William Butler Yeats

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Tower” (1917)

The poem contemplates whether destructive actions against nature or authority are justified, reflecting on the moral weight of rebellion.

In simple terms: Questioning if harming nature or authority is a true rebellion.

Key Takeaway

Consider the ethics of your resistance.

Themes

rebellion nature authority morality destruction

Mood

somber thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical poetic

When to use this quote

  • activist planning
  • environmental conservation
  • personal moral crisis

Key Concepts

ethical dilemma environmental impact political protest

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is destruction ever a justified protest?
  • What alternatives exist to challenge authority?
A Different Perspective

Rebellion can cause more harm than intended.

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