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Famous Quotations
This category contains questions and answers about some of the greatest quotes in history including the quotes themselves, their meanings, who said them, and when and where they were said.
7,102 Questions
What does 'But soft what light through yonder window breaks' mean?
This is from Act 2 scene 3 beginning at line 4. The entire line is:
But, soft! what light through yonder window breaks?
It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.
Arise, fair sun, and kill the envious moon,
Who is already sick and pale with grief,
That thou her maid art far more fair than she:
Romeo is comparing Juliet to the rising sun, to the dawn. The light is Juliet. It's a metaphor. There will be those who claim that the light to which Romeo refers is a literal light. This is incorrect. It is obviously night, and Romeo would obviously have difficulty from below seeing Juliet on the balcony, but the light is not the object of Romeo's attention. The girl he loves is; "It is the East and Juliet is the sun." This is the person for whom Romeo kills and dies. There is nothing and no one else for him.
For those who read Shakespeare, you must develop your ear for the language. Definitely look at other explanation sources such as Spark Notes or Cliff Notes, but do not rely on then. Shakespeare speaks to the heart and soul. Open these and truly listen. The language was meant to be heard aloud, not read in your head. Do this and it will begin to make sense.
Funny welcome speech for a freshers welcome party at college?
Certainly! A humorous welcome speech for a freshers welcome party could include a light-hearted introduction, a joke or two to break the ice, and a warm welcome to the new students. You could also mention some funny anecdotes about your own experiences as a freshman to connect with the audience and make them feel at ease. Remember to keep it upbeat and engaging to set a positive tone for the event.
What is an example of personification in The Lottery?
An example of personification can be found in the following passage:
Mr. Graves had selected the five slips an put them in the box, and he dropped all the papers but those onto the ground, where the breeze caught them and lifted them off.
What is the source of the quotation 'Twas ever thus'?
Thomas Moore's poem "The Fire Worshippers" (1817) contains the line "Oh! Ever thus from childhood's hour" and parodies of this poem, such as in Charles Dickens' "The Old Curiosity Shop' often instead used `twas ever thus' as did Charles Stuart Calverley's "Disaster". Though William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night (1601-02) contains some similar lines, none are close enough to deem it the origin of the phrase.
People live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones?
This phrase is a metaphorical expression cautioning individuals against criticizing others when they themselves are vulnerable to criticism. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and humility before passing judgment on others. The underlying message is to practice empathy and understanding, as everyone has their own vulnerabilities and shortcomings.
According to me this line means that when a king is ruling on his empire people in his country will not talk ill about him and will try to please him , but when the same king is conquered the people of his kingdom will criticise him and will talk ill of him and will fasten strang looks on him.
What is 'Oi chusoi Dios aei enpiptousi' when translated from Greek to English?
Oi chusoi Dios aei enpiptousi in Greek, from Trascendentalist essayist, lecturer and poet Ralph Waldo Emerson (May 25, 1803-April 27, 1882), is "The dice of God always are loaded" in English.
What does the following quote from Homers Iliad mean 'There are no pacts between lions and men'?
I'm mostly guessing, but I think it means that when two things are naturally enemies, there can never be peace between them. Even if a lion and a man were to "act" as though they wouldn't hurt each other, that is no promise and not likely. I'm not entirely sure, since I am just beginning to read the Iliad, but I guess that makes sense.
What does the quote To action little less to words inclined mean?
Ah, what a lovely quote! It simply means that actions speak louder than words. Sometimes, it's better to show what you mean through your actions rather than just talking about it. So, let your actions do the talking and make a positive impact in the world.
What are some famous quotes by Giovanni Caboto?
Oh, dude, Giovanni Caboto, or as some people call him, John Cabot, said some pretty cool stuff back in the day. One of his famous quotes is "I am off to find the East Indies, but hey, if I stumble upon a new land, that's cool too." Another gem from him is "Exploring the unknown is like, totally my jam, man." So yeah, Giovanni Caboto was all about that adventurous spirit, like a real OG explorer.
What does to ourselves and our posterity mean?
"To ourselves and our posterity" refers to both the current generation and future generations. This phrase is often used in legal and political contexts to emphasize the importance of considering the long-term impacts of decisions and actions on both present and future individuals. It highlights the idea of intergenerational equity and responsibility, urging individuals to act in ways that benefit not only themselves but also future generations.
Who said a fool and his money are soon parted?
It is most often attributed to P.T. Barnum; but was probably around long before he quoted it.
Another answer:
The quote "A fool and his money are soon parted" is a non biblical proverb from an intructional poem titled "Five Hundred Points of Good Husbandry " which was written by Thomas Tusser (1524-1580), an English poet and farmer.
What does the quotes change begins with a whisper mean to you?
To me, "change begins with a whisper" implies that even small, subtle actions or words can have a ripple effect and lead to significant transformation. It emphasizes the power of starting small and gradually building momentum towards creating positive change.
Handling a situation in an impromptu manner would be playing it by what?
Handling a situation in an impromptu manner would be playing it by ear. This means making decisions or taking actions spontaneously, without a predetermined plan or script. It requires flexibility, quick thinking, and adaptability to respond effectively to unexpected circumstances.
A famous quote said by Zacharias Jansen?
Zacharias Jansen did not leave behind any famous quotes as he was a Dutch spectacle-maker credited with inventing the first compound microscope in the late 16th century. Jansen's invention revolutionized the field of microscopy and laid the foundation for advancements in scientific research and understanding of the microscopic world. While his contributions were significant, he is not known for any specific quotes.
What is the meaning of evil is as evil does?
It means that evil (or whatever other attribute) is defined by actions rather than motives. This statement in question is a philosophical perspective, not hard truth.
The above is good, but it also can be a pessimistic response to a perceived evil action, as in: "Oh, it figures they'd do that, how awful! Well, evil is as evil does." Meaning that if you are evil, you'll do evil things; birds have to fly, fish have to swim - Evil people ARE evil and have DO evil behavior.
What were some of Haym Solomons famous quotes?
Haym Salomon is known for his financial contributions to the American Revolution more so than for any famous quotes. He helped finance the war effort and is considered a key figure in the success of the Revolution.
On a bright day, serpents (adders) come out to warm up in the sunlight. Snakes usually hide in cracks, crevasses and under rocks. (To 'crave' something is to want it very badly and to be 'wary' means to be very careful). So, on a bright day, snakes will be coming out in the open, so you'd want to be careful where you walk.
In this case, the phrase is a double entendre. Brutus, with his reference to the bright sun bringing forth dangerous creatures, is alluding to the fact that Caesar, once crowned, may change his nature completely and become a dangerous foe. Brutus is therefore advising his co-conspirators to be careful.
What is 'the pail of suds' in O'Henry's 'The Cop and the Anthem'?
In O. Henry's "The Cop and the Anthem," the "pail of suds" refers to a bucket filled with soapy water used by the protagonist Soapy to fake the appearance of having a job as a window washer. Soapy hopes that by pretending to be engaged in this activity, he can avoid being arrested for loitering and spend the winter in jail, where he will have shelter and food. Ultimately, his plan is foiled, leading to a surprising and poignant resolution in the story.
Who is the author of the quote 'be bold and mighty forces will come to your aid'?
This is often incorrectly attributed to Goethe... but it's actually Canadian author and pastor Basil King,when he was speaking about overcoming fear.
In the film "Almost Famous" Cameron Crowe misquotes this as Goethe which contributed to the confusion. Goethe 's closest quote was "Boldness has genius, power and magic in it."
In "Almost Famous", it is William Miller's mother, played by Frances McDormand, who attributes the quote to Goethe. Miller's character is based on Crowe, who worked for Rolling Stone as a teenager.
What does the phrase 'sisters by chance friends by choice' mean?
Well, honey, that phrase is just a fancy way of saying you may be stuck with your sisters by blood, but you choose to be friends with them because you actually like each other. Basically, it's about turning family ties into genuine friendships because you actually enjoy each other's company. So, embrace the chaos and love your sisters, darlin'.
King Henry VIII. Act 3, Scene 2
Approximately line 2030
The king says it.
Differing views on the topic can be found in the Bible at Collossians 3:17 and in Austin's How To Do Things With Words and in Wittgenstein's Culture and Value
Quotes from the book, "Dogsong," written by Gary Paulsen include, "Would you like some deer eyes now or later?" asked by the old man. Another quote from chapter two in the book is, "Fat is everything. And while deer fast wasn't as good as whale or seal or even pig lard from the trading post, it was good enough when it was hot."
Who wrote That you may be born aloft the trembling wings of giggling angels?
This was written by Stephen Fry in beauty and the beast, The new adventures of Stephen Fry. He also made reference to it in season 5 episode 7 of bones. the full quote is... Be brave my children, make a foray, cast off your shackles etcetera etcetera, abide by my exhortations to joie de vivre - that you may be born aloft on the trembling wings of giggling angels.
What does this quote mean An explanation of cause is not a justification by reason?
explaining why something happened does not justify the occurance example: my boss/teacher/someone makes me angry and I'm already in a bad mood so I kill them. this explains why, but does not make the act right or correct when using pure reasoning rather than emotion
