When my memory was better I could recall a poem with a similar line to Tolkein's 'All that is gold does not glitter', I think the poet was Alexander Pope and there was also a line about money 'a single leaf will waft an army o'er'.
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From hence, ye beauties, undeceived, Know, one false step is ne’er retrieved, And be with caution bold. Not all that tempts your wandering eyes And heedless hearts, is lawful prize; Nor all that glisters, gold. www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/44302/...
aug 30, 2025, 8:44 pm • 2 0 • view
Thank you! Tolkien’s is a nice counterpoint; Pope warned that glittering didn’t indicate worth, while Tolkien reminded that worth didn’t necessarily glitter.
aug 31, 2025, 12:35 pm • 1 0 • view
Ah, this is not Pope, though it’s definitely good. Also, Google informs me Shakespeare said it, too. Color me educated :-)
aug 31, 2025, 12:38 pm • 1 0 • view
I would guess it’s a pretty common sentiment (in various shades as you point out) both historically and culturally. The irony of Gray’s poem, in its admonition to women, is that it’s pretty definitive that it is men that have a problem with gold. Spectacular poem though, especially the first part.
aug 31, 2025, 4:39 pm • 1 0 • view