Poetry · Chapter
CCXV explained
A brief chapter advising immediate action in response to wrongdoing, using the metaphor of a lion's attack versus a dog's persistent tracking.
What happens
A brief chapter advising immediate action in response to wrongdoing, using the metaphor of a lion's attack versus a dog's persistent tracking.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
The emotional and psychological peak occurs when the speaker’s obsessive pursuit of the divine rose fragrance…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Justice and Revenge
The chapter counsels striking when the wrong is fresh, emphasizing the importance of timely retribution.
Key passages
“Let not the night on thy resentment fall: Strike when the wrong is fresh, or not at all. The lion ceases if his first leap fail— ’Tis only dogs that nose a cooling trail.”
Do not let your anger cool overnight; act on the offense immediately or not at all. A lion gives up if its first attack misses, but only dogs persist in following a cold scent.
The chapter uses animal imagery to contrast decisive action with futile persistence.
