“We are such stuff as dreams are made on; and our little life is rounded with a sleep.”
- 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
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Quote
“We are such stuff as dreams are made on; and our little life is rounded with a sleep.”
Explanation
This famous quote from Shakespeare’s The Tempest speaks to the fleeting and ephemeral nature of human existence. The “stuff as dreams are made on” suggests that life, like dreams, is intangible and transient—our experiences and actions are as insubstantial as the visions we encounter while asleep. Historically, this perspective on life reflects the philosophical thought of the time, emphasizing the impermanence of human existence. In the context of the play, it is spoken by Prospero, who reflects on the illusory nature of power and life itself, particularly as he approaches the end of his journey.
In the modern world, this quote resonates as a meditation on the brevity and fragility of life. It reminds people that all their achievements, struggles, and joys are ultimately temporary, much like a dream that fades upon waking. The idea of life “rounded with a sleep” further underscores the inevitability of death, which can be viewed as the final sleep that completes our existence. This viewpoint encourages a sense of humility and introspection about what truly matters in life.
For example, in today’s fast-paced, achievement-driven society, this quote can serve as a reminder to embrace the present moment rather than getting lost in the pursuit of fleeting goals. It can inspire individuals to focus on the quality of their lives and relationships, rather than constantly striving for external success. Ultimately, it encourages the idea that life’s true value lies in how we live it, not in what we accumulate or accomplish.
