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For secrets are edged tools, And must be kept from children and from fools.
John Dryden
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Secrets can be dangerous and should only be entrusted to those who can handle them responsibly.

This quote by John Dryden suggests that secrets have the potential to cause harm, much like sharp tools. It emphasizes the importance of discerning who is worthy of such knowledge, implying that naive or foolish individuals may misuse sensitive information, leading to negative consequences.

Themes

SecretsWisdomTrustKnowledgeDanger

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about the importance of discretion in handling sensitive information.

More from John Dryden

Men are but children of a larger growth, Our appetites as apt to change as theirs, And full as craving too, and full as vain.
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Or hast thou known the world so long in vain?
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Shame on the body for breaking down while the spirit perseveres.
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Love reckons hours for months, and days for years; and every little absence is an age.
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And write whatever Time shall bring to pass_x000D_ _x000D_ With pens of adamant on plates of brass.
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