We all have known good critics, who have stamped out poet's hopes; Good statesmen, who pulled ruin on the state; Good patriots, who, for a theory, risked a cause; Good kings, who disemboweled for a tax; Good Popes, who brought all good to jeopardy; Good Christians, who sat still in easy-chairs; And damned the general world for standing up. Now, may the good God pardon all good men!

Summary

This quote by American poet John Greenleaf Whittier reflects on the notion that even individuals who are considered "good" by society can often contribute to negative outcomes. The speaker references different examples, such as well-intentioned critics, statesmen, patriots, kings, Popes, and Christians who, despite their perceived goodness, end up causing harm, risking important causes, jeopardizing the greater good, or condemning others. The quote concludes with a plea for divine forgiveness for all individuals who, in their misguided actions, have inadvertently caused harm. Ultimately, Whittier's quote suggests that being "good" does not guarantee positive results and can sometimes have unintended consequences.

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