“How sweetly she looks! O, but there's a wrinkle in her brow as deep as philosophy. - Anacreon, drink to my mistress' health, I'll pledge it. Stay, stay, there's a spider in the cup! No, 'tis but a grape-stone; swallow it, fear nothing, poet. So, so; lift higher.”
Quote Analysis
In this quote from Thomas Middleton's work, the speaker is observing a woman and remarking on her appearance. The speaker marvels at the woman's beauty but also notices a hint of concern or worry, represented by the "wrinkle in her brow as deep as philosophy." This juxtaposition between beauty and a subtle hint of complexity in the woman's expression adds depth to the description. The speaker's observations then turn lighthearted as they mistake a grape-stone for a spider in their drink, showcasing a playful and whimsical tone in the overall scene. This quote delves into themes of beauty, observation, and the intertwining of lightheartedness with deeper emotions.
Modern Relevance:
In this quote from Thomas Middleton's play "A Mad World, My Masters," the characters marvel at the beauty of a woman while also acknowledging imperfections and distractions. This resonates with modern audiences who are constantly bombarded with images of beauty standards and the pressure to appear flawless, highlighting the importance of embracing imperfections and focusing on inner qualities.
Example of Usage
In this quote from Thomas Middleton, the speaker is admiring the beauty of a woman, but also noticing a wrinkle on her brow. However, he quickly dismisses his concern by mistaking a grape seed for a spider in his drink. This humorous and light-hearted exchange captures the speaker's romantic and playful nature.
Reflection Questions:
In this quote from Thomas Middleton's work, there is a mix of admiration, humor, and perhaps a touch of irony. Consider the following reflection questions:
- How does the speaker's remark about the wrinkle on the woman's brow juxtapose with his initial admiration for her appearance?
- What do you think Middleton is trying to convey through the mention of a spider in the cup and the reassurance that it is just a grape stone?
- How does this passage explore themes of appearance versus reality and the nature of poetry and art?
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“Drink to me only with thine eyes,And I will pledge with mine;Or leave a kiss but in the cup,And I'll not look for wine.”
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