"Thyself and thy belongings Are not thine own so proper, as to waste Thyself upon thy virtues, they on thee. Heaven doth with us as we with torches do, Not light them for themselves; for if our virtues Did not go forth of us 't were all alike As if we had them not. Spirits are not finely touch'd But to fine issues; nor Nature never lends The smallest scruple of her excellence, But, like a thrifty goddess, she determines Herself the glory of a creditor - Both thanks and use."

8 likes

Source: William Shakespeare (1842). “The Comedies, Histories, Tragedies, and Poems of William Shakspere: Merry wives of Windsor. Twelfth night. As you like it. Measure for measure”, p.383

About the author

William Shakespeare

Playwright, Poet

William Shakespeare was an English playwright and poet, renowned for his profound exploration of human emotions in works like 'Hamlet' and 'Othello.'

All quotes by William Shakespeare →

Same author

More quotes by William Shakespeare

See all →
William Shakespeare Playwright, Poet

"When I got enough confidence, the stage was gone. When I was sure of losing, I won. When I needed people the most, they left me. When I learnt to dry my tears, I found a shoulder to cry on. And when I mastered the art of hating, somebody started loving me."

Read quote