How we cite our quotes: (Line)
Quote #1
All changed, changed utterly
A terrible beauty is born (15-16)
Now that the Irish fighters are dead, it's safe to say that they've all been changed utterly. Even Ireland's history has been changed. But Yeats might be taking it a bit far to say that the fighters' sacrifice was beautiful, even if it's a terrible beauty. Then again, maybe he's right. Your call.
Quote #2
He might have won fame in the end (28)
Even though Yeats is trying to commemorate people for dying in the Easter Uprising, he can't help but wonder if one of the fighters—a fellow Irish poet—could have gone on to become famous if he hadn't gotten involved in the conflict. You almost wonder if Yeats sees a bit of himself in this younger poet. You know, apart from the fact that Yeats played it safe and went on to live a long and influential life.
Quote #3
He, too, has resigned his part
In the casual comedy (36-37)
Even though Yeats can't stand this dude named John MacBride, he has to admit that the guy was pretty brave to give his life to the cause of Irish freedom. But Yeats can't help but make one last dig by calling the Uprising a "casual comedy." In other words, there's something sadly ridiculous about the Easter Uprising, since it didn't really accomplish anything.