"The Moving Finger writes; and, having writ, Moves on: nor all your Piety nor Wit Shall lure it back to cancel half a Line, Nor all your Tears wash out a Word of it"

This quote by Edward Fitzgerald is a suggestion that once something is said or done, it can not be reversed. The "Moving Finger" represents time and how it continues to progress, no matter our efforts to change the past. The act of writing signifies our actions and words, which have a lasting impact. The quote suggests that no matter how much we regret or attempt to fix our mistakes, they can not be removed. Our prayers and intelligence can not reverse the consequences of our actions. This serves as a cautionary message to believe carefully before we speak or act, as the effects are long-term.