Francis Quarles

Date of Birth: May 8, 1592

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: September 8, 1644

Biography

Francis Quarles was a prominent English poet born in the late 16th century. He is best known for his emblematic poetry and religious verse. Quarles was born into a well-connected family, which allowed him to receive a comprehensive education. He studied at Christ’s College, Cambridge, and later at Lincoln’s Inn, London, where he initially trained as a lawyer. However, his passion for literature led him to a career in poetry and writing. Quarles served as secretary to James Ussher, the Archbishop of Armagh, and later worked for King Charles I, which placed him in the midst of the political and religious turmoil of his time. His most famous work, “Emblems,” published in 1635, combines images and text to convey moral and spiritual lessons. His writings, characterized by their devotional fervor and vivid imagery, have earned him a lasting place in the canon of English religious poetry.

5 Interesting Facts about Francis Quarles

1. Francis Quarles’ most renowned work, “Emblems,” was inspired by the emblem books popular in continental Europe during the Renaissance.

2. He served as the private secretary to James Ussher, the Archbishop of Armagh, which significantly influenced his religious writings.

3. Quarles’ literary style often involved the use of allegory and metaphysical conceits, characteristic of 17th-century poetry.

4. Despite his royalist sympathies, Quarles faced financial difficulties during the English Civil War and had his property confiscated by Parliamentary forces.

5. Quarles’ work remained influential well into the 18th century and was admired for its combination of visual art and poetry.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Francis Quarles

1. “Our God and soldier we alike adore, / Even at the brink of danger; not before: / After deliverance, both alike requited, / Our God’s forgotten, and our soldiers slighted.”

2. “The road to Heaven is paved with the bricks of good intentions.”

3. “Be very circumspect in the choice of thy company. In the society of thine equals thou shalt enjoy more pleasure: in the society of thy superiors thou shalt find more profit.”

4. “Meditation is the soul’s perspective glass.”

5. “Wealth, howsoever got, in England makes / Lords of mechanics, gentlemen of rakes: / Antiquity and birth are needless here; / ‘Tis impudence and money makes a peer.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There is no detailed record of Francis Quarles’ net worth during his lifetime. However, it is known that he faced financial hardships, particularly during the English Civil War.

Children

Francis Quarles had eighteen children with his wife Ursula Woodgate. Unfortunately, many of his children did not survive into adulthood, a common tragedy in the 17th century.