The phrase suggests that a particular kind of sweetness exists within a state of melancholy or sadness. It implies that there’s an inherent charm and beauty in feeling sad, hinting at a nuanced appreciation for emotions that are often seen as negative.
This quote delves into the complex nature of human emotion and highlights how experiencing sadness can bring about a sense of depth and richness to one's life experiences. The idea is not to glorify suffering but rather to recognize that within feelings of sorrow or longing, there can be an appreciation for subtleties in life that might otherwise go unnoticed. This perspective encourages understanding the multifaceted nature of emotions and the potential beauty found even in darker moods.
Francis Beaumont was a significant figure during the early 17th century, best known for his collaborations with John Fletcher on numerous plays for the London stage. His works often explored themes of love, jealousy, and human folly, reflecting the cultural richness of Elizabethan and Jacobean England.