Ugly deeds are taught by ugly deeds.
SophoclesRead
A traveller must have the back of an ass to bear all, a tongue like the tail of a dog to flatter all, the mouth of a hog to eat what is set before him, the ear of a merchant to hear all and say nothing.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the qualities needed for a traveler, including patience, adaptability, and discretion.
In this quote, Thomas Nashe humorously illustrates the attributes necessary for a successful traveler. He suggests that a traveler must possess the endurance of a donkey to manage challenges, a flattering disposition akin to a dog's tail, a willingness to accept whatever is offered like a hog, and the quiet insight of a merchant who listens without revealing too much. This blend of traits speaks to the broader human experience of navigating life’s journeys and interactions with others.
Themes
TravelPatienceAdaptabilityDiscretionQualities
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about resilience and adaptability during travel.
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