Alfred Lord Tennyson was one of the most renowned poets of the Victorian era, and has left behind a rich legacy of memorable quotes.
The poet is quoted everywhere from books to cartoons like The Simpsons, and some of his phrases have become commonly used sayings. One of his most famous is "To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield" from his poem Ulysses. This was engraved in the wall of the 2012 Olympic village in London as a source of inspiration.
These are some of Tennyson’s other notable quotes along with their sources:
"Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all."
This line is from Tennyson's poem "In Memoriam A.H.H.", written as a tribute to his close friend Arthur Henry Hallam, who’s death at the age of 22 had a profound effect on Tennyson.
"Theirs not to reason why, theirs but to do and die."
This quote is from Tennyson's poem "The Charge of the Light Brigade," which commemorates the bravery of British soldiers during the Crimean War.
"I am a part of all that I have met."
This line is from Tennyson's poem "Ulysses," which explores the theme of wanderlust and the desire for new experiences.
"Dreams are true while they last, and do we not live in dreams?"
This quote is from "The Higher Pantheism," reflecting on the nature of reality and the significance of dreams.
"If I had a flower for every time I thought of you, I could walk in my garden forever."
This quote is actually a paraphrase or adaptation of lines from Tennyson’s poem "Maud" (1855):
"She is coming, my own, my sweet;
Were it ever so airy a tread,
My heart would hear her and beat,
Were it earth in an earthy bed;
My dust would hear her and beat,
Had I lain for a century dead,
Would start and tremble under her feet,
And blossom in purple and red."
Tennyson's poetry is characterised by its lyricism, musicality, and its rich imagery. His ability to evoke emotions and provoke thought has ensured his enduring popularity and influence on subsequent generations of poets, writers and the public.