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Blood Quote by William Shakespeare

“I could a tale unfold whose lightest word Would harrow up thy soul, freeze thy young blood, Make thy two eyes like stars start from their spheres, Thy knotted and combined locks to part, And each particular hair to stand on end Like quills upon the fretful porpentine. But this eternal blazon must…” quote by William Shakespeare
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“I could a tale unfold whose lightest word Would harrow up thy soul, freeze thy young blood, Make thy two eyes like stars start from their spheres, Thy knotted and combined locks to part, And each particular hair to stand on end Like quills upon the fretful porpentine. But this eternal blazon must not be To ears of flesh and blood. List, list, O list!”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: The Tempest, Act 5, Scene 2 (paraphrased)

A vivid description of awe‑inspiring horror that should remain hidden from ordinary people.

In simple terms: Powerful images should stay unseen by the masses.

Key Takeaway

Beware the impact of overwhelming imagery.

Themes

awe horror secrecy

Mood

dramatic intense

Type

theatrical poetic

When to use this quote

  • theatrical performance
  • creative writing
  • visual arts

Key Concepts

literary imagery emotional restraint

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it appropriate to reveal intense imagery?
  • How does restraint affect audience impact?
A Different Perspective

Overly graphic detail can alienate or traumatize audiences.

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