Meaning: The quote "Though an angel should write, still 'tis devils must print" by Thomas Moore, a renowned Irish poet, reflects the power and influence of the printing process on the dissemination of information and ideas. It underscores the notion that even if a pure and virtuous being were to create a written work, the responsibility for its reproduction and distribution lies in the hands of fallible and potentially corrupt individuals. This quote encapsulates the complex relationship between the purity of ideas and the often flawed nature of their presentation to the world.

When examining this quote, it is essential to understand the historical context in which Thomas Moore lived and wrote. Born in 1779, Moore witnessed a period of significant technological advancements, including the spread of printing presses and the increased accessibility of printed materials. This era marked a pivotal shift in the way information was disseminated, as printed works became more widely available to the public. The quote can be seen as a reflection of Moore's awareness of the potential for manipulation and distortion that accompanied the mass production of written material.

In the context of the quote, the term "angel" symbolizes purity, virtue, and righteousness. It represents the idealized state of the original creation, embodying the author's intentions and integrity. On the other hand, the "devils" referred to in the quote represent the potential for corruption, distortion, and misrepresentation that may occur during the printing and dissemination of the written work. The act of printing, with all its intricacies and potential for error or deliberate manipulation, is portrayed as a task entrusted to the flawed and morally ambiguous.

This quote highlights the dichotomy between the creative process and the mechanisms of distribution. It draws attention to the potential for the message and intent of a written work to be altered or misrepresented during the printing and publishing process. The quote also serves as a cautionary reminder of the power wielded by those responsible for reproducing and circulating written material, emphasizing the need for ethical and responsible conduct in the dissemination of ideas.

In the modern context, the quote remains relevant, albeit in a more expansive and diverse landscape of information dissemination. With the advent of digital media and the internet, the process of "printing" has evolved to encompass a broader array of mediums and platforms. The quote's underlying message can be applied to the digital realm, where the responsibility for disseminating information and ideas is shared among various entities, each with the potential to influence or distort the original message.

In conclusion, Thomas Moore's quote "Though an angel should write, still 'tis devils must print" encapsulates the tension between the purity of creative expression and the potential for distortion in the dissemination of written works. It serves as a reminder of the responsibility inherent in the process of reproducing and distributing ideas, urging vigilance and ethical conduct in preserving the integrity of the author's original intent. This quote continues to resonate in the modern era, prompting reflection on the complex dynamics of information dissemination and the enduring relevance of ethical considerations in the presentation of written works.