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Burrs Quote by William Shakespeare

“The even mead, that erst brought sweetly forth The freckled cowslip, burnet, and green clover, Wanting the scythe, all uncorrected, rank, Conceives by idleness, and nothing teems But hateful docks, rough thistles, kecksies, burrs, Losing both beauty and utility.” quote by William Shakespeare
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“The even mead, that erst brought sweetly forth The freckled cowslip, burnet, and green clover, Wanting the scythe, all uncorrected, rank, Conceives by idleness, and nothing teems But hateful docks, rough thistles, kecksies, burrs, Losing both beauty and utility.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Neglect leads to overgrowth of weeds and loss of utility; the poem warns against idleness that spoils productive land.

In simple terms: Idleness breeds weeds, destroys utility

Key Takeaway

Neglect harms productivity

Themes

idleness nature metaphor productivity decay

Mood

melancholy reflection

Type

poetic didactic

When to use this quote

  • gardening
  • project management

Key Concepts

environmental stewardship work ethic

Practical Applications

  • eco‑education
  • productivity workshops

Questions to Reflect On

  • What modern tasks reflect this neglect?
  • How can we prevent idleness from eroding value?
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