Think you I bear the shears of destiny? Have I commandment on the pulse of life?

Think you I bear the shears of destiny? Have I commandment on the pulse of life?

In the context of William Shakespeare, the quote "Think you I bear the shears of destiny? Have I commandment on the pulse of life?" can be interpreted as a reflection on the limitations of human agency and the power of fate in shaping our lives. Shakespeare's works often explore themes of fate, free will, and the unpredictable nature of life, and this quote encapsulates these ideas in a succinct and powerful manner.

The first part of the quote, "Think you I bear the shears of destiny?" suggests a sense of resignation and acceptance of the idea that fate or destiny is beyond our control. The image of "bearing the shears of destiny" evokes the idea of being a mere instrument in the hands of a higher power, unable to change the course of events that have been predetermined for us. This idea is a recurring theme in Shakespeare's plays, where characters often struggle against the forces of fate and find themselves ultimately powerless in the face of their own destinies.

The second part of the quote, "Have I commandment on the pulse of life?" further emphasizes the idea of human limitations and the unpredictability of life. The phrase "commandment on the pulse of life" suggests a sense of control or authority over the course of one's own existence, but the question posed here implies that such control is illusory and ultimately beyond our grasp. Shakespeare often explores the idea that life is full of uncertainties and that our attempts to control or predict the future are ultimately futile.

Overall, this quote from Shakespeare serves as a poignant reminder of the complex interplay between fate and free will in our lives. It challenges us to consider the limits of our own agency and to reflect on the ways in which we navigate the unpredictable and often uncontrollable forces that shape our destinies.