I don't understand this quote from Romeo & Juliet:
"Ah me! How sweet is love itself possessed,
When but love's shadows are so rich in joy" (5.1.10-11).
Could someone please interpret it? Thanks!
See Sparknotes No Fear interpretation.
http://nfs.sparknotes.com/romeojuliet/page_248.html
Thank you
You're welcome.
Certainly! This quote is from the play Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare. In this particular scene, Romeo is standing over Juliet's lifeless body, believing she is dead.
The line "Ah me! How sweet is love itself possessed" expresses Romeo's deep sorrow and longing for the love he once had with Juliet. He is lamenting the loss of their relationship and how wonderful it was when they were together.
The second line, "When but love's shadows are so rich in joy," is a bit more complex. Here, Romeo is suggesting that even the mere memory or illusion of love brings him great happiness. He is implying that the joy he experienced in their love is so powerful that even the idea or shadow of it is still incredibly fulfilling.
In essence, Romeo is reflecting on the bittersweet nature of love. He is acknowledging the immense sadness he feels in the absence of Juliet, but also finding solace in the memories and remnants of their love.
Now, to better understand this quote, it can be helpful to study the lines in context. To do this, you can read the surrounding lines or go back to the previous scenes in the play to grasp the full meaning of Romeo's emotions in this moment. Additionally, exploring the themes of love, loss, and the fleeting nature of happiness throughout Romeo and Juliet can also provide further insight into this quote.