King John
Complexities of power and loyalty in King John, a historical play by William Shakespeare. Set against the backdrop of England’s turbulent politics, this gripping narrative explores the reign of King John, who faces internal betrayal and external threats. As he grapples with his own legitimacy and the loyalty of his nobles, the play delves into themes of authority, identity, and human frailty.
Stats for nerds
0recommend
2mentions
2people
2016–2025years
100% neutral
Mentions per year
What Hacker News says
- The article goes to lengths to explain the saying, without ever mentioning its source... and so I assume the author also doesn't realize the common saying is a misquote. The actual quote makes a LOT more sense:
Shakespeare's King John, Act II (SALISBURY): ...To gild refined gold, to paint the lily, ...Is wasteful and ridiculous excess.
Gild all the lilies you want; artificial flowers have resale value.
But gold-plating gold? Yeah, that's just stupid.
- Hi Udo - in complete agreement here. In my own grief I grew to understand that the path is different and that those who have not experienced death simply do not understand. On occasions I'm reminded to forgive those around me who don't get it. I made new and lasting friends out of those who provided support and consolation at the right time, and lost people who were superficially friends.
Recently while reading Shakespeare I came across Constance's statement on Grief from King John which expressed to me how persistent grief can be.
Constance: Grief fills the room up of my absent child, Lies in his bed, walks up and down with me, Puts on his pretty looks, repeats his words, Remembers me of all his gracious parts, Stuffs out his vacant garments with his form; Then, have I reason to be fond of grief? Fare you well: had you such a loss as I, I could give better comfort than you do. I will not keep this form upon my head, When there is such disorder in my wit. O Lord! my boy, my Arthur, my fair son! My life, my joy, my food, my all the world! My widow-comfort, and my sorrows' cure!
For those pets, parents, grandparents, and others that have passed, I continue to miss them, perhaps more than I should. Don't we all?
