Milton

Every line we carry

Each one links to its source, what it means, and the shirt in any of our looks.

1. The mind is its own place.

   Satan says it after his fall, trying to make the best of Hell. The idea is older and truer than its speaker: much depends on the mind you bring. Your inner state shapes any place you stand.

   Paradise Lost 1.254-255, Original English (Paradise Lost, 1674 text, Project Gutenberg #26)

2. All is not lost. Courage never to submit or yield.

   Satan rallies after defeat with an unconquerable will. Milton shows that resolve can serve a bad cause as well as a good one. Point your refusal to quit at something worth it.

   Paradise Lost 1.106-108, Original English (Paradise Lost, 1674 text, Project Gutenberg #26)

3. Long is the way and hard that leads up out of Hell to light.

   Satan tells the fallen angels that escape will not be quick or easy. Climbing out of any deep pit takes time. Expect the road to be long and walk it anyway.

   Paradise Lost 2.432-433, Original English (Paradise Lost, 1674 text, Project Gutenberg #26)

4. The world was all before them.

   Adam and Eve leave Eden hand in hand, grieving but free to choose their way. An ending is also an open road. Wipe the tears and pick a direction.

   Paradise Lost 12.646-647, Original English (Paradise Lost, 1674 text, Project Gutenberg #26)

5. Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven.

   Satan prefers ruling a ruin to obeying anyone. Milton means it as pride's motto, not a model. Ask whether your independence serves anything beyond your ego.

   Paradise Lost 1.263, Original English (Paradise Lost, 1674 text, Project Gutenberg #26)