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Matthew Prior Quotes

Powerful Matthew Prior for Daily Growth

About Matthew Prior

Matthew Prior (1664-1721), an influential English poet and cleric, was born on June 9, 1664, in Soham, England. His father, also named Matthew Prior, was a merchant and his mother, Dorothy, hailed from a family of Dissenters, who were non-conformist Protestants. Despite his parents' religious background, Prior was sent to Cambridge University to study theology. Prior's poetic talents emerged during his time at university. Influenced by greats such as John Dryden and Isaac Watts, he began writing poetry, showing a particular aptitude for satirical and pastoral works. His first published collection of poems, "Poems on Several Occasions," was released in 1701. In 1693, Prior left Cambridge without graduating and entered the Church of England as a clergyman. He held various ecclesiastical positions throughout his life, including being the chaplain to Queen Anne from 1702 until her death in 1714. This position provided him with access to royal circles, influencing his later works. Prior's most significant work is arguably "The Hindu and the Christian" (1712), a religious debate poem that gained popularity due to its intellectual depth and poetic beauty. Another notable work is "Song of Songs," a paraphrase of the biblical Book of Song of Solomon, published posthumously in 1723. Prior's life and works reflect his deep religious convictions, as well as his skillful mastery of poetic forms. His influence can be seen in many later poets, particularly those writing in the Augustan age. Matthew Prior passed away on April 6, 1721, leaving behind a lasting legacy in English literature.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Age and youth are both a blame and an excuse."

This quote suggests that age and youth, though often used as reasons for one's actions, can both be justifications for mistakes or misdeeds, as well as explanations for one's strengths and accomplishments. Essentially, it implies that at any stage in life, people are accountable for their choices and actions, while also acknowledging that certain limitations or advantages may come with being young or old.

"The greater the truth, the greater the illusion, if not managed rightly."

This quote suggests that as the importance or magnitude of a truth increases, so does its potential to create a powerful illusion if not handled with care. It emphasizes the idea that the impact and influence of a truth can lead to misconceptions or distortions when misunderstood or misused. In essence, the quote underscores the need for diligence, clarity, and responsibility in communicating and interpreting significant truths to avoid creating illusions that may lead people astray.

"Life, what is it but a dream, full of confusion, that when we wake, we find 'tis nothing but a dream."

This quote by Matthew Prior suggests that life, as we experience it, is a dream-like state filled with confusion and uncertainty. Just as dreams are subjective and often incoherent, so too can our understanding of reality be unclear. Upon waking from this dream (death or realization), we find that the experiences and perceptions accumulated during our 'dream' life were merely illusions. It invites reflection on the transient nature of existence, urging us to seek meaning and clarity amidst the confusion of daily living.

"He who stands on tiptoe does not stand firm."

The quote "He who stands on tiptoe does not stand firm" by Matthew Prior suggests that one who is overly anxious, eager, or precariously positioned will ultimately lack stability or endurance. It encourages the reader to maintain a balanced and secure stance in life rather than being overly excited, hasty, or unstable, for such a position will eventually lead to instability and insecurity. The message implies that it's essential to find one's footing, be grounded, and approach situations with patience, calmness, and confidence for a lasting impact.

"Love is too weak a word for what I feel."

The quote by Matthew Prior suggests that his feelings are more profound and intense than what the common term "love" can express. He might be indicating an all-consuming, passionate affection or adoration beyond the typical connotations of love. This could reflect a deep emotional connection, obsession, or strong attachment, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of his feelings.

Cured yesterday of my disease, I died last night of my physician.

- Matthew Prior

Yesterday, Disease, Last, Last Night

Fantastic tyrant of the amorous heart. How hard thy yoke, how cruel thy dart. Those escape your anger who refuse your sway, and those are punished most, who most obey.

- Matthew Prior

Cruel, Thy, Yoke, Dart

Who walks the fastest, but walks astray, is only furthest from his way.

- Matthew Prior

Walks, Furthest, His, Astray

And 'tis remarkable that they talk most who have the least to say.

- Matthew Prior

Remarkable, Most, Least, Tis

The ends must justify the means.

- Matthew Prior

Must, Means, Ends, Justify

It takes two to quarrel, but only one to end it.

- Matthew Prior

End, Only, Takes, Quarrel

For, when with beauty we can virtue join, We paint the semblance of a form divine.

- Matthew Prior

Beauty, Paint, Form, Semblance

Be to their virtue very kind; be to their faults a little blind.

- Matthew Prior

Blind, Kind, Very, Faults

They talk most who have the least to say.

- Matthew Prior

Say, Most, Least, Talk

They never taste who always drink: They always talk, who never think.

- Matthew Prior

Think, Never, Always, Drink

Hope is but the dream of those who wake.

- Matthew Prior

Inspirational, Hope, Dream, Wake

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