To the last moment of his breath on hope the wretch relies; and e'en the pang preceding death bids expectation rise

To the last moment of his breath on hope the wretch relies; and e'en the pang preceding death bids expectation rise

Oliver Goldsmith, a renowned Irish writer and poet, was known for his keen observations of human nature and his ability to capture the complexities of the human experience in his works. One of his most famous quotes, “To the last moment of his breath on hope the wretch relies; and e'en the pang preceding death bids expectation rise,” perfectly encapsulates the theme of hope and resilience that runs through much of his writing.

In this quote, Goldsmith reflects on the innate human tendency to hold onto hope, even in the face of overwhelming despair and suffering. The word “wretch” suggests a sense of desperation and misery, yet even in the darkest moments, the individual clings to hope as a lifeline. This speaks to the universal human experience of facing adversity and finding the strength to persevere through sheer force of will.

Goldsmith’s own life was marked by struggles and setbacks, yet he never lost his sense of optimism and belief in the power of hope. Born in poverty in rural Ireland, he faced numerous challenges on his path to becoming a successful writer and scholar. Despite these obstacles, he continued to pursue his passion for literature and eventually achieved fame and recognition for his work.

Throughout his writing, Goldsmith often explored themes of poverty, social injustice, and the human capacity for resilience. His most famous work, “The Vicar of Wakefield,” tells the story of a virtuous clergyman and his family who face a series of misfortunes but ultimately triumph through their unwavering faith and hope.