Meaning: This quote, "As virtuous men pass mildly away, and whisper to their souls to go, whilst some of their sad friends do say, the breath goes now, and some say no," is from the poem "A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning" by John Donne. John Donne was a 17th-century English poet known for his metaphysical poetry, which often explored complex themes of love, spirituality, and mortality. "A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning" is one of his most famous works and is a meditation on the nature of love and separation.

In this particular quote, Donne reflects on the peaceful passing of virtuous individuals and the reactions of those around them. The phrase "pass mildly away" suggests a gentle and serene departure, emphasizing the dignity and tranquility of the moment. The act of "whisper[ing] to their souls to go" evokes a sense of inner peace and acceptance, as the departing individuals bid farewell to their own souls in a quiet and contemplative manner.

The subsequent lines, "whilst some of their sad friends do say, the breath goes now, and some say no," capture the ambivalence and uncertainty that often surround the moment of death. The conflicting reactions of the friends reflect the complex emotions and perceptions that accompany the loss of a loved one. Some believe that the departing individual's breath is ceasing, acknowledging the reality of death, while others may deny or question the finality of the moment, expressing disbelief or refusal to accept the inevitable.

Donne's exploration of mortality and the human experience of death in this quote is characteristic of his larger body of work, which often delves into profound philosophical and spiritual themes. Through his eloquent and introspective language, Donne invites readers to contemplate the nature of life, death, and the enduring impact of virtuous individuals.

The poem as a whole uses the metaphor of a compass to depict a love that transcends physical separation, and the quoted lines capture the broader theme of departure and the varied responses to it. Donne's skillful use of language and imagery invites readers to consider the complexities of human emotions and the enduring nature of virtuous individuals even in the face of mortality.

Overall, this quote from John Donne's "A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning" encapsulates the poet's profound contemplation of life, death, and the enduring impact of virtuous individuals. Through his eloquent and thought-provoking verse, Donne invites readers to reflect on the nature of departure and the complex emotions that accompany it, while also celebrating the dignity and serenity of a virtuous passing.