How we cite our quotes: Paragraph (P#) or Line (Line #)
Quote #10
Now as they walked in this land, they had more rejoicing than in parts more remote from the Kingdom to which they were bound; and drawing near to the City, they had yet a more perfect view thereof. It was builded of Pearls and Precious Stones, also the Street thereof was paved with Gold; so that by reason of the natural glory of the City, and the reflections of the Sun-beams upon it, Christian with desire fell sick, Hopeful also had a fit or two of the same disease. Wherefore here they lay by it a while, crying out because of their pangs, If you see my Beloved, tell him that I am sick of love. (P887)
Ok, if you've just read this quote… read it again. And maybe again. Bunyan's description of the Celestial City is gorgeous, isn't it? Even more striking than the bedazzled streets, though, is the reaction the pilgrims have to all of this. They actually feel "sick," pained with the experience. Without a doubt, this is one of the most profound moments in the book, in part because this reaction of suffering at such beauty communicates the intense longing, patience, and endurance they've undergone for so long to arrive here. It's worth taking a moment to translate it to your own experience. Can you think of a time when something was so pleasurable or beautiful it actually made you hurt? In a way, that reaction speaks to the depth and truth of the desire—the way that something fulfills you at a level beyond your own understanding. This is the kind of love-sickness Christian and Hopeful feel upon entering the city. Pretty passionate for a Puritan, right?