“How sharper than a serpent’s tooth it is to have a thankless child!”
- April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616
- Born in England
- Playwright, poet, actor
- Wrote many masterpieces such as “Hamlet,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Macbeth,” and had a great influence on English literature
Quote
“How sharper than a serpent’s tooth it is to have a thankless child!”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s King Lear expresses the deep pain and betrayal that comes from being treated unjustly or ungratefully by one’s own child. “How sharper than a serpent’s tooth” uses the metaphor of a serpent’s bite, which is quick and painful, to describe the emotional hurt caused by ingratitude. The comparison highlights the intensity of the pain and the feeling of being stung by someone you love. “To have a thankless child” refers to the experience of giving love, care, and resources to a child, only to have those efforts met with disrespect or lack of appreciation.
In modern contexts, this quote resonates with the universal disappointment and heartbreak that parents may feel when their children do not acknowledge or appreciate their sacrifices. It speaks to the expectation that children, especially after being nurtured and cared for, will show gratitude and respect toward their parents. When this expectation is unmet, it can feel like a personal wound, as the parent’s love and care are rejected or taken for granted.
Ultimately, this quote underscores the deep emotional cost of ingratitude, especially when it comes from those we care for most. It reflects the human desire for recognition and appreciation for the love and effort we give to others, particularly within families. It also serves as a reminder that gratitude is an essential part of healthy relationships, and that when it is lacking, it can cause significant emotional pain.
