A green sprout in a cracked clay bowl beneath a small watering can pouring clear drops against a pale blue background.

Original artwork, not a still

John Dryden

Welcome as kindly showers to the long parched earth.

Behind the line

What it means

Our interpretation.

This is a simile about relief after a long dry spell. Whatever is being welcomed arrives the way gentle rain arrives on ground that has been thirsty for ages. The word 'kindly' makes the rain feel generous and caring, not just useful, so the welcome is warm and grateful.

Context reviewed

Share this quote