ByQuotes

Francis Beaumont Quotes

Powerful Francis Beaumont for Daily Growth

About Francis Beaumont

Francis Beaumont (1584-1616) was an influential English playwright, poet, and dramatist during the early Jacobean era. Born in Salisbury, Wiltshire, on March 21, 1584, to Richard Beaumont and Margaret Hawarde, he grew up in a prosperous family that provided him with an excellent education at St John's College, Cambridge. His academic background undoubtedly played a significant role in developing his literary skills. Upon completing his studies, Beaumont became involved in London's vibrant theatrical scene, collaborating closely with fellow playwright John Fletcher. Their partnership produced some of the most notable works in Elizabethan and Jacobean drama, such as "Philaster" (1609), "The Maid's Tragedy" (1611), and "The Knight of the Burning Pestle" (1613). Beaumont's individual works include "The Knight of the Swan," "The Chance" (both 1607), and his masterpiece, "The Rover" (1624), posthumously published. Beaumont's writing was characterized by complex plots, vivid language, and intricate characterization. His plays often explored moral ambiguities and the corrupting power of political ambition. Despite his tragically short life – he died in London on December 9, 1616 at the age of just 32 – Beaumont left a lasting impact on English literature and theater. His collaborative works with Fletcher are considered some of the finest examples of Jacobean drama, demonstrating the rich talent that flourished during this time. Beaumont's contributions to the genre have ensured his legacy as one of England's greatest early modern playwrights.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Time hath, like an autumneal sun, burnt away our early morning frosts of fear."

This quote suggests that time has a way of dissipating initial apprehensions or fears, much like the autumnal sun burns off morning frost. It implies that as we progress through life (or experience the passage of time), our earlier, hesitant feelings will naturally fade away, leaving us bolder and more confident in our decisions and actions.

"O! Time, thou shoest me thy foot; but O! I see't not!"

The quote implies that time is passing in front of the speaker's eyes, but they are unable to perceive or comprehend it. It suggests a feeling of being trapped in the moment, where one can sense change happening around them, but their own understanding or awareness remains limited. This could also symbolize a lack of clarity or foresight, as the individual wishes they had the ability to see the future ("shoest me thy foot") and understand its implications ("but O! I see't not!").

"Heaven doth with us as we with torches do; Not light 'em for ourselves, but to give light unto the world."

This quote by Francis Beaumont suggests that humans should act like torches, not just illuminating our own lives, but also spreading light to benefit others or the world at large. It implies that we have a responsibility to use our knowledge, talents, and resources to uplift others and make a positive impact in the world. In essence, it encourages selflessness, kindness, and the pursuit of a greater good beyond personal gain.

"The eye adores what it both cannot approve nor endure."

This quote by Francis Beaumont suggests that human attraction or fascination (the "eye adoring") can sometimes stem from things that we find unacceptable or challenging ("cannot approve nor endure"). This paradoxical attraction is not uncommon, as it can arise from the allure of the unknown, the forbidden, or simply the intrigue of the different or complex. It's a reminder that our feelings and desires are not always logical or straightforward.

"Love is a strange duel, in which each man shoots at himself."

This quote suggests that love can be self-destructive, as both parties involved may unknowingly harm themselves in their pursuit or expression of affection. It metaphorically compares love to a duel, where instead of fighting against an opponent, each person is shooting at their own emotional wellbeing. In essence, love can bring out intense feelings and actions that might not align with one's best interests, leading to self-inflicted pain or turmoil.

Oh, love will make a dog howl in rhyme.

- Francis Beaumont

Love, Will, Oh, Howl

Faith without works is like a bird without wings; though she may hop with her companions on earth, yet she will never fly with them to heaven.

- Francis Beaumont

May, Works, Though, Companions

Nothing's so dainty sweet as lovely melancholy.

- Francis Beaumont

Lovely, Nothing, Dainty, Melancholy

Envy, like the worm, never runs but to the fairest fruit; like a cunning bloodhound, it singles out the fattest deer in the flock.

- Francis Beaumont

Deer, Cunning, Flock, Runs

Let no man fear to die, we love to sleep all, and death is but the sounder sleep.

- Francis Beaumont

Love, Sleep, Die, Sounder

It is more noble by silence to avoid an injury than by argument to overcome it.

- Francis Beaumont

Argument, More, Than, Injury

Kiss till the cow comes home.

- Francis Beaumont

Home, Cow, Till, Kiss

There is a method in man's wickedness; it grows up by degrees.

- Francis Beaumont

Man, Grows, Method, Wickedness

The true way to gain much, is never to desire to gain too much.

- Francis Beaumont

Desire, Never, Too, Gain

Interest makes some people blind, and others quick-sighted.

- Francis Beaumont

Interest, Some, Makes, Blind

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.