"The glories of our blood and state, Are shadows, not substantial things; There is no armour against fate, Death lays his icy hand on kings. Scepter and crown must tumble down, And, in the dust, be equal made With the poor crooked scythe and spade."
About the author
James Shirley
Playwright, Poet
James Shirley was a 17th-century English poet and playwright, known for his poignant reflections on life and mortality in works like 'The Contention of Ajax.'
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More quotes by James Shirley
James Shirley
Playwright, Poet
"Only the actions of the just, Smell sweet and blossom in their dust."
James Shirley
Playwright, Poet
"The honour is overpaid,When he that did the act is commentator."
James Shirley
Playwright, Poet
"Death lays his icy hand on kings."
James Shirley
Playwright, Poet
"There is no armour against fate."
James Shirley
Playwright, Poet
"When our souls shall leave this dwelling, the glory of one fair and virtuous action is above all the 'scutcheons on our tomb, or silken banners over us."