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Poetry · Chapter
CCXV explained
A brief chapter advising immediate action in response to wrongdoing, using the metaphor of a lion's attack versus a dog's persistent tracking.
What happens
A brief chapter advising immediate action in response to wrongdoing, using the metaphor of a lion's attack versus a dog's persistent tracking.
Themes in this chapter
Justice and Revenge
The chapter counsels striking when the wrong is fresh, emphasizing the importance of timely retribution.
Key passages
“Let not the night on thy resentment fall: Strike when the wrong is fresh, or not at all. The lion ceases if his first leap fail— ’Tis only dogs that nose a cooling trail.”
Do not let your anger cool overnight; act on the offense immediately or not at all. A lion gives up if its first attack misses, but only dogs persist in following a cold scent.
The chapter uses animal imagery to contrast decisive action with futile persistence.