Quote by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Alas! they had been friends in youth; But whispering tongues can poison truth, And constancy lives in realms above; And life is thorny; and youth is vain; And to be wroth with one we love Doth work like madness in the brain.
Summary
This quote reflects on the sad reality of friendship turned sour due to gossip and betrayal. It suggests that even though they were once friends, the poisonous power of gossip caused their bond to wither away. It acknowledges that true loyalty and constancy are rare virtues that reside in higher realms. Furthermore, it emphasizes the challenging nature of life with its obstacles and the fleeting nature of youth. Lastly, it highlights how anger towards someone we love can have a detrimental impact on our mental well-being, akin to a state of madness.