Felix Randal : Quotations
Felix Randal is a notable literary work by Gerard Manley Hopkins. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Felix Randal.
Quotations
“Felix Randal the farrier, O is he dead then? my duty all ended…”
Explanation: The poet expresses his sorrow at Felix Randal’s death. As a priest, his duty was to care for him. Now that Felix is gone, the poet feels a deep emotional loss, not just the end of a duty.
“This seeing the sick endears them to us, us too it endears.”
Explanation: The poet says that caring for the sick makes us emotionally closer to them. Their suffering creates a bond. It also brings us closer to ourselves, making us more human and kind.
“Pining, pining, till time when reason rambled in it…”
Explanation: The poet shows how Felix suffered slowly over time. His mind weakened, and he lost control. The repetition of “pining” emphasizes the long, painful decline of his health.
“Mould of man, big-boned and hardy-handsome.”
Explanation: The poet praises Felix’s strong body and manly beauty. He was tall, broad, and physically powerful — the perfect example of a working man. His outer strength made him admirable.
“My tongue had taught thee comfort…”
Explanation: As a priest, the poet comforted Felix with religious words. He guided Felix spiritually and helped him prepare for death. This shows the role of the priest in giving peace at the end of life.