How we cite our quotes: (Line)
Quote #1
Success is counted sweetest
By those who ne'er succeed. (1-2)
Our speaker-teacher drops the lesson on us right from the get-go. Only the losers in life really know what it means to be a winner. That's a sad paradox. Do you think that explains why we tend to root for the underdog and boo the defending champion?
Quote #2
To comprehend a nectar
Requires sorest need. (3-4)
You can't just kind of want something in order to understand it. You have to desire it in the most profound way possible. "Sorest need" is key, at least in the speaker's estimation. So, at least there's a silver lining to that deep dissatisfaction you might be feeling.
Quote #3
Not one of all the purple Host
Who took the Flag today
Can tell the definition
So clear of victory (5-8)
Bully for you, purple Host. You may have won the battle and captured the flag, but you'll never be able to fully understand why that's important. Do you think that dampens their enjoyment of success? Should it?