Meaning: This quote by Richard Gallienne, a British poet and writer, offers a thought-provoking perspective on the timeless tragedy of "Romeo and Juliet." The quote suggests that if the young lovers were to experience a tragedy in today's world, they would have only themselves to blame due to their own mismanagement, as the world is more accepting and supportive of their love than ever before.

The tragedy of "Romeo and Juliet" is a classic play written by William Shakespeare in the late 16th century. The story revolves around the passionate and ultimately doomed love affair between Romeo, a member of the Montague family, and Juliet, a member of the Capulet family, two feuding households in the city of Verona. The play is renowned for its exploration of themes such as love, fate, and the consequences of impulsive actions.

In the quote, Gallienne suggests that in today's world, Romeo and Juliet would not face the same insurmountable barriers to their love as they did in Shakespeare's time. He implies that contemporary society is more understanding and supportive of young love, and that the tragedy that befalls the couple is a result of their own mismanagement rather than external forces. This interpretation encourages a reevaluation of the characters' decisions and challenges the traditional view of the play as a story of star-crossed lovers doomed by fate and circumstance.

Gallienne's assertion that "the world is with them as it has never been before" speaks to the progress and evolving attitudes in society regarding love and relationships. In many modern societies, there is greater acceptance and tolerance of diverse forms of love, including inter-faith, inter-racial, and same-sex relationships. This shift in societal norms suggests that Romeo and Juliet would likely encounter less opposition to their love in contemporary times.

Moreover, Gallienne's reference to "sensible fathers and mothers" acknowledges the role of parental guidance and support in young people's relationships. In today's world, many parents strive to understand and respect their children's choices in love, recognizing that open communication and acceptance can foster healthier and more fulfilling relationships. This highlights the importance of familial support in navigating the complexities of love and relationships.

The quote also raises questions about personal responsibility and the consequences of impulsive decisions. By suggesting that Romeo and Juliet would have only themselves to blame for any tragedy, Gallienne prompts consideration of the characters' choices and actions. This challenges the perception of the couple as helpless victims of circumstance and encourages a reexamination of their agency and accountability in shaping their own destinies.

In conclusion, Richard Gallienne's quote offers a thought-provoking reimagining of the classic tragedy of "Romeo and Juliet" in the context of modern society. His perspective invites reflection on the evolving attitudes towards love and relationships, the role of parental support, and the implications of personal agency and responsibility. By presenting the idea that the young lovers would have the world on their side in contemporary times, Gallienne prompts a reassessment of the timeless themes and lessons embedded in Shakespeare's enduring masterpiece.