The Most Beautiful Line in English, Ranked

Choose the line you think is the most beautiful!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 23, 2024 06:21
The beauty of a single line in literature can captivate the heart and linger in the mind long after the book is closed. It prompts discussions, enriches classes, and enhances appreciation for the artistry of words. This site offers a space for enthusiasts to highlight these impactful moments and share what resonates most deeply with their own experiences. Here, each visitor has a voice in celebrating the elegance of written English through voting. The rankings evolve with each vote, reflecting collective admiration and forming a dynamic list of beloved lines. Your participation not only contributes to this unique collection but also helps others see varied perspectives on what makes a line truly beautiful.

What Is the Most Beautiful Line in English?

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    It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.

    It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.

    The opening line of 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen.
    • Author: Jane Austen
    • Book: Pride and Prejudice
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    All the world's a stage, And all the men and women merely players.

    All the world's a stage, And all the men and women merely players.

    From Shakespeare's 'As You Like It', this line reflects on the world and our roles in it.
    • Author: William Shakespeare
    • Play: As You Like It
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    That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.

    That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.

    Neil Armstrong's words when he first stepped onto the moon.
    • Speaker: Neil Armstrong
    • Event: Moon Landing
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    Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

    Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

    The closing lines of Robert Frost's poem 'The Road Not Taken'.
    • Author: Robert Frost
    • Poem: The Road Not Taken
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    To be, or not to be: that is the question

    To be, or not to be: that is the question

    A famous line from William Shakespeare's play 'Hamlet', contemplating existence.
    • Author: William Shakespeare
    • Play: Hamlet
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    For whom the bell tolls, It tolls for thee.

    A line from John Donne's meditation 'Meditation XVII', often quoted to express interconnectedness and the impact of one's actions on others.
    • Author: John Donne
    • Work: Meditation XVII
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    The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.

    The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.

    A phrase from Franklin D. Roosevelt's inaugural address.
    • Speaker: Franklin D. Roosevelt
    • Context: Inaugural Address
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    Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.

    Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.

    A line from Alfred Lord Tennyson's poem 'In Memoriam A.H.H.'
    • Author: Alfred Lord Tennyson
    • Poem: In Memoriam A.H.H.
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    In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

    In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

    The opening line of the Book of Genesis in the Bible.
    • Source: The Bible
    • Book: Genesis
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    It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.

    It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.

    The opening line of 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens.
    • Author: Charles Dickens
    • Book: A Tale of Two Cities

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful line in English. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or line is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2121 views
  • 0 votes
  • 10 ranked items

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Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each line once every 24 hours. The rank of each line is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Beautiful Line in English

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.
Rank #1 for the most beautiful line in English: It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife. (Source)
Language has a unique way of touching the human soul. Among the many forms of expression, a single line of text can stand out. It captures emotion, paints vivid pictures, and leaves a lasting impact. This line often comes from literature, poetry, or speeches. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and depth.

Writers strive to create such lines. They choose words with care, aiming to evoke strong reactions. The best lines often use common words in uncommon ways. They can be short but powerful. Their rhythm and flow make them memorable. They resonate with readers, making them think and feel.

The context of a line also adds to its beauty. It can reflect a pivotal moment in a story or an important idea. When a line captures a universal truth, it becomes timeless. Readers from different backgrounds can relate to it. This connection makes the line stand out.

Imagery plays a crucial role. Vivid descriptions create a mental picture. The reader can see, hear, or feel what the writer describes. This sensory experience enhances the line's impact. It transports the reader to another place or time.

Emotion is another key element. A beautiful line often stirs feelings. It can evoke joy, sadness, hope, or nostalgia. These emotions make the line memorable. They linger in the reader's mind long after they have read it.

Sound also contributes to a line's beauty. The choice of words and their arrangement create a musical quality. This can be soothing, uplifting, or haunting. The sound of the words adds another layer of meaning. It makes the line more enjoyable to read and hear.

The structure of a line matters too. A well-crafted line has a balance. It flows smoothly and feels complete. Each word fits perfectly, contributing to the overall effect. This harmony makes the line pleasing to the eye and ear.

Cultural significance can elevate a line. When a line reflects shared experiences or values, it gains importance. It becomes part of the collective memory. People quote it, refer to it, and draw inspiration from it. This shared recognition adds to its beauty.

A beautiful line often stands the test of time. It remains relevant across generations. New readers discover it and find meaning in it. Its appeal endures, making it a lasting piece of art.

In conclusion, the most beautiful line in English combines simplicity, depth, and emotion. It uses vivid imagery and has a pleasing sound. Its structure is balanced, and it resonates with readers. Cultural significance and timelessness add to its appeal. Writers continue to craft such lines, aiming to touch the hearts and minds of their audience.

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