Quote by William Shakespeare
When to the sessions of sweet silent thought I summon up remembrance of things past, I sigh the lack of many a thing I sought And with old woes new wail my dear time's waste. Then can I drown an eye (unused to flow) For precious friends hid in death's dateless night, and weep afresh love's long since cancelled woe, and moan the expense of many a vanished sight. Then can I grieve at grievances foregone, and heavily from woe to woe tell over the sad account of fore-bemoaned moan, Which I new pay as if not paid before. But if the while I think on thee, dear friend, all losses are restored and sorrows end.
Summary
In this quote, the speaker reflects on the power of memory to invoke feelings of sorrow and loss. They reminisce about the past and feel a deep longing for things they have sought but never found. The speaker admits to shedding tears for lost loved ones and dwelling on past heartbreak and missed opportunities. They recount their grievances and mourn over what has been lost. However, when the speaker thinks of their dear friend, all their losses and sorrows are restored, suggesting that the presence of this friend brings them comfort and consolation, ultimately putting an end to their sadness.