William Shakespeare, a renowned English playwright and poet, is famous for his insightful observations on life, especially love. He wrote the quote that illustrates love as vibrant and beautiful, similar to a flower in full bloom during the month of May. The phrase 'alack the day' introduces a moment of sadness, showing that love also brings pain alongside joy. The 'blossom passing fair' represents beauty and fragility, reminding us how love can be delicate and temporary. Many readers relate to this duality of love, feeling both happiness and sorrow. Shakespeare's works continue to resonate today, as they explore profound themes that people experience. The sonnets and plays he created often emphasize the complexity of emotional experiences, and this quote is a perfect example of that theme, showing how love influences our lives in various ways.
B1 · Intermediate · 135 words · ~1 min
Quote of the day · William Shakespeare · Wikiquote

On a day — alack the day! — Love, whose month is ever May, Spied a blossom passing fair Playing in the wanton air
— William Shakespeare
Word notebook · B1
Tap a highlighted word in the text, or study the list below.
- vibrant
- full of life and energy
- exemplifies
- serves as a typical example of (something)
- moment
- a very brief period of time
- fragile
- easily broken or damaged
- duality
- the quality of having two parts or aspects
- delicate
- very fine in structure and easily broken or damaged
- resonate
- to produce or be filled with a deep, full sound; to evoke a feeling or memory
- temporary
- lasting for a limited time; not permanent
Comprehension check · B1
Finished reading? See how much stuck.
1.What does the quote suggest about love?
2.What does the phrase 'alack the day' imply?
3.What aspect of love does the 'blossom passing fair' symbolize?















































