Meaning: The quote "Its visits, like those of angels, short, and far between" is from the poem "The Grave" by Robert Blair, a Scottish poet who lived from 1699 to 1746. This line reflects the transient and fleeting nature of certain experiences or phenomena, comparing them to the infrequent appearances of angels. The poem "The Grave" was first published in 1743 and became immensely popular during the 18th century. It is a meditation on death and the afterlife, and it reflects the prevailing attitudes towards mortality and the human condition during that era.

In the context of the quote, the comparison to angels suggests that the visits being described are rare and extraordinary. The use of "short, and far between" emphasizes the infrequency and brevity of these visits, creating a sense of rarity and preciousness. This can be interpreted in various ways, such as referring to moments of profound joy, inspiration, or spiritual experiences that are fleeting and elusive.

The comparison to angels also carries a religious and spiritual connotation, as angels are often seen as messengers of God or divine beings. This adds a layer of depth to the quote, suggesting that the experiences or phenomena being referred to have a transcendent or otherworldly quality.

The imagery in the quote is evocative and poetic, capturing the imagination and prompting contemplation about the nature of these infrequent and momentous occurrences. It invites readers to reflect on the fleeting nature of certain aspects of life and the significance of rare and extraordinary moments.

Robert Blair's "The Grave" is a reflective and contemplative work that delves into themes of mortality, the passage of time, and the uncertainty of the afterlife. The poem is structured as a series of meditations on death and the human condition, and it evokes a sense of melancholy and introspection. Through vivid imagery and poignant language, Blair invites readers to confront their own mortality and contemplate the transient nature of earthly existence.

The quote "Its visits, like those of angels, short, and far between" encapsulates the broader themes of transience and rarity that permeate "The Grave." It serves as a poignant and memorable expression of the fleeting nature of certain experiences, leaving a lasting impression on readers and inviting them to ponder the ephemeral and extraordinary aspects of life.

In conclusion, the quote "Its visits, like those of angels, short, and far between" from Robert Blair's "The Grave" captures the essence of rare and fleeting experiences, drawing a parallel between their infrequency and the elusive appearances of angels. This evocative comparison invokes a sense of wonder and contemplation, encouraging readers to reflect on the transient and extraordinary moments that punctuate the human experience. Through its poetic language and profound imagery, the quote serves as a powerful reminder of the preciousness of rare and extraordinary occurrences in life.