"Ode on Melancholy" : Quotations
"Ode on Melancholy" is a notable literary work by John Keats. 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 "Ode on Melancholy".
Quotations
“No, no, go not to Lethe…”
Explanation: In this line, Keats warns not to escape sorrow by forgetting or avoiding it. He encourages facing emotions instead.
“She [melancholy] dwells with Beauty—Beauty that must die;”
Explanation: Here, Keats says sadness is part of beauty because all beautiful things eventually fade away.
“And Joy, whose hand is ever at his lips
Bidding adieu;…”
Explanation: These lines show that joy is never permanent—it is always about to leave.
“Emprison her soft hand, and let her rave,
And feed deep, deep upon her peerless eyes.”
Explanation: Keats suggests embracing strong emotions like love or sorrow, instead of running from them.