# Epigraph explained — These Old Shades

> Chapter companion for These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer.

## What happens

The epigraph presents a poetic reflection on the nature of the age, contrasting the resentful and contradictory spirit of the present with the forgiving charm of the past, setting a tone of nostalgic appreciation for earlier times.

## Key lines

> This Age I grant (and grant with pride) Is varied, rich, eventful: But if you touch its weaker side, Deplorably resentful: Belaud it, and it takes your praise With air of calm conviction: Condemn it, and at once you raise A storm of contradiction.

The current era is diverse and full of events, but it is also touchy and quick to take offense; praise it and it accepts calmly, criticize it and it erupts in argument.

_The speaker acknowledges the richness of the modern age while critiquing its defensive and contradictory nature._

> Whereas with these old shades of mine, Their ways and dress delight me; And should I trip by word or line, They cannot well indict me.

In contrast, the figures of the past, with their customs and attire, bring me joy; and if I make a mistake in writing about them, they cannot easily accuse me.

_The speaker expresses a preference for the past, which offers a forgiving and less judgmental subject for artistic exploration._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/these_old_shades_se/chapters/epigraph
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/these_old_shades_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/these_old_shades_se/chapters