Of all the paths lead to a woman's love

Quote byJohn Fletcher · 1579–1625

Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: The Knight of Malta (1647), Act I, sc. i.

English (original)

Of all the paths lead to a woman's love Pity's the straightest.

— John Fletcher

'Tis a word that's quickly spoken, Which being restrained, a heart is broken.

Death hath so many doors to let out life.

Let's meet and either do or die.

Then, everlasting Love, restrain thy will; 'Tis god-like to have power, but not to kill.

Oh, woman, perfect woman! what distraction Was meant to mankind when thou wast made a devil! What an inviting hell invented.

Something given that way.