The rakes' last wish metaphor embodies the concept of a dissipated individual's final yearning or request, symbolizing deep regret and unfulfilled potential near life's end.
Easy Meaning
It represents the remorse of someone who pursued hedonism over virtue, acting as a warning against reckless living and highlighting the futility of seeking redemption too late.
Examples
This metaphor appears in diverse contexts:
- Literary instance: In William Hogarth's "The Rake's Progress," Tom Rakewell's descent into madness and final moments imply a wasted wish for salvation after a life of debauchery.
- Real-life scenario: An elderly person recalling youthful excesses with sorrow, wishing for a chance to change past choices during their last days.
- Cultural reference: Biographical tales where notable figures, after indulgent lives, express deathbed regrets over lost opportunities or relationships.
