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"What a wretched thing is this illusion of desire; — Analysis & Translation

2 min read English

Original Poem

"What a wretched thing is this illusion of desire; that even for ones like you, souls like us are left to pine." Meaning

Translation (English)

What a terrible thing this false idea of wanting is; that even for people like you, souls like us are left to yearn.

Historical Context

Literary Form
Free verse
When Written
Unknown
Background
The poem reflects on the nature of desire and its impact on the soul, suggesting a philosophical or introspective exploration of human emotions.

Sources: https://www.litcharts.com/shakescleare/shakespeare-translations/the-tempest/act-1-scene-2, https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/38932-a-man-s-heart-is-a-wretched-wretched-thing-it-isn-t, https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/jeffrey-r-holland/souls-symbols-sacraments/, https://www.huckgutman.com/blog-1/wallace-stevens-the-fierceness-of-desire, https://clearbible.blog/2019/04/21/desire-hope-the-resurrection/

Detailed Explanation

This brief poem explores the concept of desire as an illusion, suggesting that it is a 'wretched' or miserable thing. The poet reflects on how desire affects individuals, even those who might seem above such feelings ('ones like you'). Despite their status or nature, these individuals ('souls like us') are still left longing or 'pining' for something unattainable. The use of 'illusion' implies that desire is deceptive, creating a false sense of need or longing that ultimately leaves one unfulfilled. The poem captures a universal human experience, highlighting the emotional turmoil and dissatisfaction that often accompany desire. It suggests a philosophical view that desire is inherently flawed, leading to a cycle of longing and disappointment. The language is emotive and introspective, inviting the reader to consider their own experiences with desire and the impact it has on their soul.

Themes

  • Desire
  • Illusion
  • Longing
  • Human Emotion

Literary Devices

  • Metaphor: 'illusion of desire' suggests desire is deceptive.
  • Alliteration: 'wretched thing' uses repetition of the 'w' sound.
  • Contrast: 'ones like you' vs. 'souls like us' highlights differences in perception.

Word Dictionary

Word Meaning Translation Transliteration
wretched miserable extremely unhappy or unfortunate rech-id
illusion false idea something that deceives by producing a false or misleading impression i-loo-zhun
desire wanting a strong feeling of wanting something di-zai-ur
pine long for to yearn deeply; suffer with longing pyn
souls spirits the spiritual or immaterial part of a human being sohlz

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