The devil never tempts the empty man he waits for the full one.
Author: William Butler Yeats
👁️ 6 views
The devil never tempts the empty man he waits for the full one.
👁️ 6 views
This quote, "The devil never tempts the empty man; he waits for the full one," suggests that temptation, or moral challenges, is more likely to occur when a person has achieved some measure of success, power, or abundance, rather than when they have nothing. The "empty man" is symbolic of someone who lacks material wealth, power, or significant emotional fulfillment. Such a person may have fewer attachments or desires, and therefore, fewer angles through which temptation can effectively work. They have little to lose and possibly less to covet or corrupt. On the other hand, the "full man" represents someone who has acquired various forms of wealth, success, or emotional fulfillment. This person has more at stake, more to protect, and potentially more vulnerabilities. The "full man" might also experience pride, complacency, or a sense of invulnerability, making them more susceptible to temptation. When one is "full," one might be tempted to overreach, to become greedy, or to indulge in hubris. The devil, representing temptation or moral downfall, finds a fertile ground in those who have something significant to lose or to guard. Ultimately, the quote serves as a cautionary reminder that having abundance, whether material or emotional, can lead to challenges and temptations. It encourages mindfulness and vigilance in maintaining one's moral and ethical compasses, especially when one has achieved a state of "fullness." In essence, it warns that true moral tests often come when one has reached a level of substantial achievement or satisfaction, urging the importance of humility and awareness regardless of one's circumstances.
Quote By: William Butler Yeats
William Butler Yeats was a seminal figure in 20th-century literature, revered for his profound poetry and significant contributions to the Irish literary revival. Born on June 13, 1865, in Sandymount, Dublin, Ireland, Yeats grew up in a family that valued the arts, influenced by his painter father and his mother, who played a crucial role in fostering his early literary inclinations. His upbringing in the heart of Ireland allowed him to develop a deep connection with Irish folklore and mythology, themes that would permeate much of his later work.
Yeats's literary journey began in earnest in the late 19th century when he became involved with the Gaelic League and the Irish National Theatre. His early poems, heavily influenced by romanticism and the pre-Raphaelite movement, often explored themes of love, beauty, and the supernatural. However, as Yeats matured as a poet, his work evolved, reflecting a more complex understanding of the human condition and the sociopolitical landscape of Ireland.
In 1900, Yeats published "The Wanderings of Oisin," a significant work that highlighted his fascination with myth and legend. Throughout his career, he would experiment with different styles and forms, culminating in his later poems, which exhibit a masterful control of language and a profound depth of feeling. Notable works such as "The Second Coming" and "Sailing to Byzantium" reflect his preoccupation with aging, artistic creation, and the cyclical nature of history, showcasing Yeats's shifting philosophical perspectives.
In addition to his poetry, William Butler Yeats was a playwright and a notable figure in the establishment of the Abbey Theatre, which became a cornerstone of Irish cultural identity. His involvement in politics also marked his later years, as he was a senator in the Irish Free State. In recognition of his artistic achievements, Yeats was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1923, cementing his legacy as one of the foremost poets of the English language.
Yeats's work remains influential, as he seamlessly blended personal experience with broader cultural and political themes, making him a crucial figure in both Irish literature and the global literary canon. He passed away on January 28, 1939, in France, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire readers and writers around the world. William Butler Yeats's exploration of the human experience, wrapped in the fabric of Irish identity, ensures his place as one of the great literary figures of the modern era.