Meaning: This quote, attributed to the English poet John Cleveland, reflects on the transformative power of love. In just a few words, Cleveland captures the profound impact of love in softening even the harshest of materials and situations. The imagery of "melting rigor" and a "flint breaking upon a feather bed" vividly portrays the idea that love has the ability to soften the hardest hearts and overcome the toughest obstacles.

John Cleveland, known for his witty and satirical poetry, lived in the 17th century and was associated with the metaphysical poets of his time. His works often explored themes of love, politics, and human nature, and this particular quote exemplifies his ability to convey deep insights through concise and evocative language.

The first part of the quote, "Love melts the rigor which the rocks have bred," suggests that love has the power to dissolve the hardness and inflexibility that can develop in people over time. It implies that love can break down emotional barriers and soften the rigid attitudes and behaviors that individuals may have developed as a result of life's hardships and disappointments. The metaphor of rocks breeding rigor conveys the idea that hardness and inflexibility can be perpetuated and reinforced by challenging experiences, but love has the capacity to melt away these defenses and allow for vulnerability and emotional openness.

The second part of the quote, "a flint will break upon a feather bed," further emphasizes the transformative nature of love. Here, Cleveland employs a striking image to illustrate the idea that even the most unyielding and resistant elements, symbolized by the flint, can be overcome by the gentleness and tenderness represented by the feather bed. The contrast between the hardness of the flint and the softness of the feather bed serves as a powerful metaphor for the way in which love can conquer and dissolve the toughest obstacles and resistance.

This quote encapsulates a timeless truth about the nature of love and its ability to bring about profound change. It suggests that love has the capacity to dissolve rigidity, break down barriers, and transform even the most unyielding aspects of human nature. Whether in personal relationships or in the broader context of society, the sentiment expressed by Cleveland speaks to the enduring power of love to soften hearts, bridge divides, and bring about reconciliation and understanding.

In summary, John Cleveland's quote, "Love melts the rigor which the rocks have bred; a flint will break upon a feather bed," serves as a poignant reflection on the transformative and unifying power of love. Through vivid imagery and concise language, Cleveland conveys the idea that love has the capacity to soften the hardest of hearts and overcome the most formidable obstacles, offering a timeless insight into the nature of love and its ability to bring about profound change.