Philip Massinger Quotes

Powerful Philip Massinger for Daily Growth

About Philip Massinger

Philip Massinger (1597-1661), an influential English playwright and poet, was born in London during the Elizabethan era. He was one of the youngest sons of John Massinger, a successful merchant tailor, and his wife Anne. Unfortunately, his father died when Philip was only six years old, leaving him in the care of his older brothers. Massinger's early life was marked by poverty and hardship, but he managed to secure an education at Westminster School and later at Queen's College, Oxford. It was during this time that he developed a passion for literature and drama, which would become the foundation of his future career. Influenced by the works of Shakespeare, Jonson, and Fletcher, Massinger began writing plays in the mid-1620s. His first recorded play, "The Duke of Milan," was performed at the Blackfriars Theatre in 1623. However, it wasn't until his collaboration with John Fletcher on "The Sea Voyage" in 1622 that Massinger gained significant recognition. Massinger is best known for his history plays, which are characterized by their complex plots, deep characterization, and poetic language. Some of his most notable works include "The Renegado," "The Unfortunate Lovers," "Believe as You List," and "The Roman Actor." His collaboration with Fletcher produced masterpieces such as "The Custom of the Country" and "The Island Princess." Despite his success, Massinger's life was not without tragedy. In 1632, he lost his wife and two sons within a span of six months. These losses deeply affected him, and some argue that they can be seen reflected in his later works. Philip Massinger passed away in 1661, leaving behind a rich legacy of drama that continues to be celebrated today. His contributions to the English stage solidified his place among the greatest playwrights of the early modern period.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Heaven doth its candles light at twilight."

This quote by Philip Massinger implies that even in dark or challenging times, there is always hope. Just as heaven lights its candles (symbolizing guidance, wisdom, or hope) during the twilight (a period of uncertainty or ambiguity), so too can we find light and clarity amidst our own difficulties. It serves as a reminder that resilience, wisdom, and guidance are always within reach, even when things seem bleak.

"Death is but crossing the world, as friends do the seas; they live that live after."

This quote suggests that death is not an end, but a transition or crossing over to another phase of existence, similar to how friends can travel across oceans and continue their lives on the other side. It implies a hopeful view of death as a passage to a new realm where one's spirit continues to live.

"We are but shadows, not substantial."

This quote by Philip Massinger suggests that humans are essentially illusions or transient entities, lacking tangible substance. It implies that our physical existence is temporary and insubstantial compared to something greater or eternal. This perspective encourages us to consider the fleeting nature of life and the importance of living with purpose and meaning.

"A man's life is nothing but a play; it has its acts, scenes, and exits."

This quote by Philip Massinger suggests that human life can be seen as a dramatic production where each person plays a role (a 'man'), with distinct stages (acts), moments (scenes), and inevitable endings (exits). It implies that the various events and experiences in one's lifetime are comparable to those found in a play, emphasizing the unpredictability, intrigue, and transience inherent in life.

"Time, like an ever-rolling stream, bears all its sons away."

This quote by Philip Massinger implies that time is relentless and inexorable, carrying every living being along with it, inexorably towards change and the inevitability of the end. It serves as a poignant reminder that life is fleeting and unstoppable, encouraging us to embrace the present moment, seize opportunities, and value our time and relationships wisely.

True dignity is never gained by place, and never lost when honors are withdrawn.

- Philip Massinger

Lost, Never, Gained, Honors

Malice scorned, puts out itself; but argued, give a kind of credit to a false accusation.

- Philip Massinger

Give, Puts, Itself, Malice

Patience, the beggar's virtue, shall find no harbor here.

- Philip Massinger

Patience, Here, Find, Beggar

To doubt is worse than to have lost; and to despair is but to antedate those miseries that must fall on us.

- Philip Massinger

Lost, Fall, Miseries, Despair

I had not to this time subsisted, but that I was supported by your frequent courtesies and favours.

- Philip Massinger

Time, Had, Frequent, Favours

Be wise; soar not too high to fall; but stoop to rise.

- Philip Massinger

Wise, Fall, High, Rise

Many good purposes lie in the churchyard.

- Philip Massinger

Good, Lie, Many, Purposes

He is not valiant that dares die, but he that boldly bears calamity.

- Philip Massinger

Die, Valiant, Calamity, Bears

Death hath a thousand doors to let out life: I shall find one.

- Philip Massinger

Death, Doors, Find, Hath

Ambition, in a private man is a vice, is in a prince the virtue.

- Philip Massinger

Ambition, Private, Vice, Prince

He that would govern others, first should be Master of himself.

- Philip Massinger

Himself, Govern, Would, Master

Let us love temperately, things violent last not.

- Philip Massinger

Love, Let Us, Last, Violent

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