To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
A countryman between two lawyers is like a fish between two cats.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote humorously suggests that a countryman is at a disadvantage when caught between two lawyers, much like a fish between two hungry cats.
Benjamin Franklin's quote uses humor to illustrate the precarious position of an ordinary person, or a 'countryman', who finds himself surrounded by two lawyers. The imagery of a fish trapped between two cats emphasizes the vulnerability and potential for exploitation in a legal dispute, suggesting that the common person may not have the skills or resources to navigate complex legal proceedings.
Themes
LawyersVulnerabilityHumorFishCats
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the legal system, one might say, 'As Benjamin Franklin wisely remarked, a countryman between two lawyers is like a fish between two cats.'
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes βHe'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
Benjamin FranklinRead
[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
Benjamin FranklinRead
I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Similar quotes
I never know when I am being funny, and the other way too. I don't think you can think about that. I don't think you can try to be funny. Some people are just funny.
Christopher WalkenRead
Surveys show that the #1 fear of Americans is public speaking. #2 is death. That means that at a funeral, the average American would rather be in the casket than doing the eulogy.
Jerry SeinfeldRead
Fun is what you do for yourself. If somebody else does it, it's entertainment.
David MametRead
I want to have fun. Life ain't no dress rehearsal. I want to have fun. I'm a comedian; I ain't no politician. So everything I do is with humor, with love.
Bernie MacRead
When you're onstage and you know you're bombing, that's very, very scary. Because you know you gotta keep going - you're bombing, but you can't stop.
Christopher WalkenRead
The highly motivated people in society are the ones causing all the trouble. It's not the lazy unmotivated folks sitting in front of a TV eating potato chips who bother anyone.
George CarlinRead