Meaning: The quote, "Oh eyes, no eyes, but fountains fraught with tears; O life, no life, but lively form of death; Oh world, no world, but mass of public wrongs," is a powerful expression of despair and disillusionment. It encapsulates the deep sense of hopelessness and anguish experienced by the speaker, who laments the state of the world and the human condition. The quote is attributed to Thomas Kyd, a renowned English dramatist of the Elizabethan era, best known for his play "The Spanish Tragedy."

In this quote, the speaker uses vivid and evocative imagery to convey their profound sense of grief and despair. The reference to "eyes, no eyes, but fountains fraught with tears" suggests a profound sorrow and anguish that seems to overflow uncontrollably. The juxtaposition of "life, no life" and "lively form of death" conveys a paradoxical existence, where life itself feels devoid of vitality and instead resembles a mere semblance of death. The speaker's perception of the world as a "mass of public wrongs" reflects a pervasive disillusionment with society and the prevalence of injustice and suffering.

Thomas Kyd's work often delved into themes of tragedy, mortality, and the darker aspects of human existence. "The Spanish Tragedy," his most famous work, is a revenge tragedy that explores themes of justice, vengeance, and the corrupting influence of power. Kyd's writing was characterized by its intense emotional depth and exploration of the human psyche, making him a significant figure in Elizabethan drama.

The quote can be interpreted as a poignant expression of the speaker's emotional turmoil and their disillusionment with the world around them. The use of repetition, with the phrase "Oh... no... but," amplifies the sense of despair and serves to emphasize the stark contrast between the expected and the experienced. The imagery of tears, death, and public wrongs creates a powerful and evocative portrayal of suffering and desolation.

Furthermore, the quote can be seen as a reflection of the broader socio-political context of Kyd's time. The Elizabethan era was marked by significant social and political upheaval, including religious conflict, economic uncertainty, and the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. These tumultuous circumstances likely influenced Kyd's writing and may have contributed to the pervasive sense of disillusionment and despair evident in the quote.

In conclusion, the quote attributed to Thomas Kyd encapsulates a profound sense of despair and disillusionment, expressed through vivid imagery and evocative language. It reflects the intense emotional depth and thematic complexity characteristic of Kyd's work, as well as the broader socio-political context of the Elizabethan era. Through this quote, Kyd offers a poignant exploration of the human experience and the enduring struggle to find meaning and purpose in a world fraught with sorrow and injustice.