Those that much covet are with gain so fond,For what they have not, that which they possessThey scatter and unloose it from their bond,And so, by hoping more, they have but less;Or, gaining more, the profit of excessIs but to surfeit, and such griefs sustain,That they prove bankrupt in this poor-rich gain.
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In this passage from "The Rape of Lucrece," Shakespeare explores the theme of desire and greed. He suggests that those who are overly eager to acquire more often end up losing what they already have. The pursuit of unattainable desires can lead to a state of dissatisfaction, causing individuals to neglect their existing possessions in favor of what is beyond their reach.
The poet highlights the irony of gaining more—wherein the excess can lead to ruin rather than fulfillment. Instead of securing happiness through wealth or possessions, the insatiable quest ultimately results in emptiness, showing that the consequences of greed can diminish one's true wealth and lead to emotional bankruptcy.
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