To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Women are books, and men the readers be.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that women have depth and complexity, while men are the ones who engage with and understand them.
Benjamin Franklin uses the metaphor of women as books to illustrate the idea that women possess rich experiences, emotions, and knowledge, which can be explored and understood by men. It implies that just as readers derive meaning from books, men have the responsibility to appreciate, understand, and connect with women on a deeper level, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and comprehension in relationships.
Themes
WomenMenRelationshipsUnderstandingMetaphor
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about gender dynamics at a relationship workshop.
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.
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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
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