"Sweet are the uses of adversity....."
Shakespeare's Universality
Multiple interpretations of the Bard’s famous quote
Shakespeare’s quote, “Sweet are the uses of adversity,” refers to the idea that difficult experiences can have positive outcomes. The full quotation, culled from his famous play “As You Like It”, reads as:
“Sweet are the uses of adversity, which, like the toad, ugly and venomous, wears yet a precious jewel in his head; and this our life, exempt from public haunt, finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks, sermons in stones, and good in every thing.” (II.1.12–17).
Even a rudimentary study of the priceless works of the Bard of Avon reveals that the unique feature of Shakespeare’s writings is their universality. They are beyond space and time — applicable at over the world globe, virtually at very time in the history.
However, I feel another feature that adds mystery and mystic to his almost proverbial sayings is that you can come out with different interpretations of each of them. This particular quote has been among my favourite ones since my school days in Yadavindra Public School, Patiala, India (1974-77). However, depending on your own mood and the particular moment, it can be interpreted in different ways. I had been jotting these down in the last few weeks and I share these with you, in enumerated form. Do let me know what you feel about it. Don’t hesitate to add your take on this particular passage.
Adversity builds character: Going through tough times can teach us important lessons about resilience, determination, and perseverance. When we overcome challenges, we become stronger and more capable of facing future obstacles.
Adversity fosters creativity: When we’re forced to think outside the box in order to solve problems, we can come up with innovative solutions that we might not have otherwise considered.
Adversity promotes growth: Facing adversity can force us to confront our weaknesses and limitations, and can push us to improve ourselves in order to meet the challenges ahead.
Adversity deepens relationships: Going through difficult times with others can create strong bonds of empathy and support. Shared adversity can bring people closer together and strengthen friendships, families, and communities.
5. Adversity increases gratitude: When we face adversity, we often gain a new appreciation for the good things in our lives. We may become more aware of the blessings we take for granted, and more grateful for the people and resources that support us.
6. Adversity provides perspective: When we’re facing a crisis, it can be easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. But sometimes, adversity can give us a new perspective on our lives and our priorities, helping us to see what’s really important and guiding us toward more meaningful goals.
7. Adversity inspires empathy: When we’ve faced our own challenges and struggles, we may become more compassionate and understanding toward others who are going through difficult times. Our experiences of adversity can help us to connect with others on a deeper level and to offer support and encouragement when they need it most.
Another dimension of Shakespeare is that he has an entirely different take on the same issue, occasionally in the same play but very often in another one.
For instance, Shakespeare’s quote about adversity from Henry VI, Part 3: reads: “Let me embrace thee, sour adversity, for wise men say it is the wisest course.”
We leave it to another piece to interpret it but suffice it to say that while it chimes very well with the previous quote, it also gives another perspective.
I shall not exhort anyone to pick up Shakespeare’s plays and start reading them if they have not already done, but it’s easy as well as instructive to search for “Shakespeare quotes” on a specific subject/ topic. It shall be more than worth your time.
Happy surfing! Adieu….for now.
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The author superannuated as Special Chief Secretary, Punjab on 31st July, 2021, after nearly 37 years of service in the IAS.
He can be reached on kbs.sidhu@gmail.com