[LINK] DNA Coil

[Ivan Trundle]

On 24/09/2006, at 3:37 PM, stephen at melbpc.org.au wrote:

> Wondering about the meaning of life, as you do, I was pondering
> the apparent natural affinity many people find with the, 'mortal coil'
> metaphor by Shakespeare. Why is it one of his best known quotes
> when it doesn't even seem to make much sense?

"For in that sleep of death what dreams may come
When we have shuffled off this mortal coil,
Must give us pause: there's the respect
That makes calamity of so long life;"

(the famous third soliloquy' in Hamlet)

It's had many meanings over time, and the meaning that Shakespeare  
used in Hamlet most likely related to 'noisy disturbance, fuss ado',  
though some suggest that the phrase meant to separate from one's  
body. I prefer the former: 'mortal coil' and the bustle of life. Even  
back then, life was busy. However, Hamlet was discussing the taking  
of life.

There was also a time when 'coil' meant 'to cull' or 'to thrash'. And  
also 'a mound of hay', 'a pen for hens' and even a breech of a gun.  
Pretty versatile, I'd reckon.

Interesting stuff.

iT