Meaning: This quote, "World's use is cold, world's love is vain, world's cruelty is bitter bane; but is not the fruit of pain," by Elizabeth Barrett Browning, reflects the poet's contemplation of the harsh realities of the world and the potential for growth and resilience through suffering. Elizabeth Barrett Browning was a prominent Victorian-era poet known for her exploration of themes such as love, social justice, and the human condition. In this particular quote, she captures a sense of disillusionment with the world's unkindness and superficiality, while also suggesting that there may be a purpose or transformation borne out of the hardships endured.

The first part of the quote, "World's use is cold, world's love is vain, world's cruelty is bitter bane," expresses a sentiment of disappointment and disillusionment with the world. The word "use" may refer to the practical, utilitarian nature of the world, suggesting a lack of warmth or genuine compassion. "Love is vain" reflects a sense of futility or emptiness in the world's expressions of affection or care, while "cruelty is bitter bane" evokes the idea of suffering and torment caused by the harshness of the world.

However, the latter part of the quote, "but is not the fruit of pain," introduces a contrasting perspective. Here, Browning seems to acknowledge that despite the world's coldness and cruelty, there may be a meaningful outcome or growth that arises from enduring pain. This notion aligns with the theme of resilience and the transformative power of suffering that is often found in Browning's works.

Browning's use of language in this quote is particularly striking. The repetition of the word "world's" at the beginning of each phrase emphasizes the pervasive and all-encompassing nature of the observed qualities – coldness, vanity, and cruelty – within the world. This repetition serves to reinforce the overarching theme of disillusionment with the world's negative attributes.

In the broader context of Browning's body of work, this quote resonates with her exploration of the complexities of human experience and the often tumultuous nature of relationships and societal norms. Browning's poetry frequently delves into the emotional and psychological depths of the human condition, grappling with themes of love, suffering, and the pursuit of meaning amidst adversity.

In conclusion, Elizabeth Barrett Browning's quote encapsulates a profound reflection on the harsh realities of the world, acknowledging its coldness, vanity, and cruelty, while also suggesting the potential for growth and resilience through the transformative power of pain. This quote invites contemplation on the dual nature of the world – its capacity for disillusionment and suffering, as well as the possibility of finding meaning and personal evolution in the face of adversity.