Meaning: The quote "Look thy last on all things lovely, Every hour - let no night Seal thy sense in deathly slumber Till to delight Thou hast paid thy utmost blessing" is a poetic and evocative statement by the English poet Austin Dobson. The quote encourages the reader to appreciate and cherish the beauty and joy in life, to not take anything for granted, and to ensure that one's last experience of the world is of something lovely and delightful.

Austin Dobson was an English poet and essayist who lived from 1840 to 1921. He was known for his light and graceful poetry, often drawing inspiration from the classical literature and art of the past. Dobson's work often reflected his love for beauty and his keen observation of the world around him. This particular quote exemplifies his poetic style and his emphasis on the fleeting nature of beauty and joy.

The quote can be interpreted as a call to live life fully and consciously, to be mindful of the passing of time, and to actively seek out and appreciate the things that bring joy and delight. The phrase "Look thy last on all things lovely" suggests a sense of urgency and impermanence, urging the reader to take in and savor the beauty of the world as if it were the last time they would ever see it. This sentiment aligns with the broader theme of carpe diem, or the idea of seizing the day and making the most of the present moment.

The quote also emphasizes the importance of staying awake and alert to the pleasures of life, as indicated by the injunction to "let no night Seal thy sense in deathly slumber." This can be seen as a metaphor for being alive and engaged, rather than being passive or indifferent to the world. It encourages the reader to remain open to the experiences of joy and beauty, and to actively seek out opportunities for delight.

Furthermore, the phrase "Till to delight Thou hast paid thy utmost blessing" suggests that the ultimate fulfillment in life comes from experiencing and appreciating the blessings of delight. It implies that the pursuit and experience of joy and beauty are essential to a fulfilling and meaningful life. The idea of "paying" for these blessings suggests an investment of one's attention, appreciation, and gratitude in order to fully receive and enjoy them.

In conclusion, Austin Dobson's quote "Look thy last on all things lovely, Every hour - let no night Seal thy sense in deathly slumber Till to delight Thou hast paid thy utmost blessing" encapsulates a profound and timeless message about the value of living with awareness, appreciation, and joy. It serves as a reminder to cherish the fleeting beauty of the world, to remain awake and alive to its wonders, and to actively seek out and savor moments of delight. The quote continues to resonate with readers as a poignant and inspirational reflection on the importance of embracing the loveliness of life.