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Book Quote by William Shakespeare

“O, let my books be then the eloquence And dumb presagers of my speaking breast, Who plead for love, and look for recompense, More than that tongue that more hath more expressed.” quote by William Shakespeare
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“O, let my books be then the eloquence And dumb presagers of my speaking breast, Who plead for love, and look for recompense, More than that tongue that more hath more expressed.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: The Tempest, Act 5, Scene 1

The speaker wishes his books to speak for him, expressing love and seeking reward beyond mere words.

In simple terms: Books should convey his feelings better than speech.

Key Takeaway

Let writing express what speech cannot.

Themes

expression love communication

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

literary poetic

When to use this quote

  • writing letters
  • public speaking
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

literature self‑representation

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can writing ever fully replace spoken emotion?
  • What does “dumb presagers” suggest about silence?
A Different Perspective

Words may still fall short of true feeling.

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