Meaning: This quote by George Eliot, a renowned novelist, poet, journalist, and translator, delves into the complex emotions and reflections that often accompany the experience of death. It suggests that in the face of death, people tend to regret their moments of harshness or severity towards others, rather than feeling remorse for instances of tenderness or compassion. The quote encapsulates a profound truth about human nature and the way we often reassess our priorities and actions in the face of mortality.

George Eliot, the pen name of Mary Ann Evans, was a prominent figure in the Victorian literary scene. Her works, including novels such as "Middlemarch," "Silas Marner," and "The Mill on the Floss," are celebrated for their insightful exploration of human nature and society. Eliot's writing often delved into moral and philosophical themes, and her keen observations of human behavior continue to resonate with readers today.

In the context of the quote, "When death, the great reconciler, has come, it is never our tenderness that we repent of, but our severity," George Eliot invites contemplation on the nature of regret and the way individuals confront their past actions when confronted with mortality. The notion of death as a "great reconciler" suggests that it has the power to bring a sense of perspective and clarity to the living, prompting them to reevaluate their attitudes and behaviors.

The first part of the quote, "When death, the great reconciler, has come," sets the stage for the contemplation of human emotions in the face of mortality. Death, as an inevitable and universal experience, often serves as a catalyst for reflection and introspection. When confronted with the finality of life, individuals may find themselves reevaluating their relationships, their priorities, and the way they have treated others.

The second part of the quote, "it is never our tenderness that we repent of, but our severity," delves into the nature of regret and the way individuals confront their past actions. Here, Eliot suggests that people are more likely to feel remorse for moments of harshness or unkindness towards others, rather than regretting instances of tenderness or compassion. This observation speaks to the power of empathy and kindness in human relationships, and the lasting impact of negative interactions.

Eliot's insight into the nature of regret in the face of death prompts consideration of the ways in which individuals prioritize and assess their actions. The quote invites contemplation on the significance of forgiveness, empathy, and compassion in human relationships. It also underscores the human tendency to reassess our behaviors and attitudes when confronted with the fragility of life and the inevitability of death.

In conclusion, George Eliot's quote offers a poignant reflection on the nature of regret in the face of mortality. It prompts contemplation on the power of tenderness and severity in human relationships, and the way individuals confront their past actions when confronted with death. Through her insightful observation, Eliot invites readers to consider the enduring significance of empathy, compassion, and forgiveness in the fabric of human existence.