I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
What kills a skunk is the publicity it gives itself.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Unwanted attention often leads to negative consequences.
Abraham Lincoln's quote suggests that it is not just one's actions but also the attention and publicity associated with those actions that may lead to trouble or downfall. The metaphor of a skunk implies that sometimes drawing attention to oneself can elicit disapproval or criticism, just as a skunk's smell can bring unwanted attention and consequences for the animal itself.
Themes
PublicityAttentionConsequencesSelf-AwarenessHumor
In practice
Example use cases
A social media influencer reflecting on the importance of being mindful of the attention they attract.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes βSir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
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Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
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For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
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And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
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