They that on glorious ancestors enlarge, Produce their debt instead of their discharge.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Boasting about ancestors creates an obligation rather than honoring them.
- In plain terms
- Talking too much about famous forebears adds debt instead of clearing it.
- What can you take from it?
- Live your own life instead of resting on past glory.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Am I living for myself or my name?
- How do I define my own worth?
Another view
Honoring ancestors can be positive if done humbly.
More from Edward Young
Titles are marks of honest men, and wise; The fool or knave that wears a title lies.
Permalink to quote #13 None think the great unhappy but the great.
Permalink to quote #15 Some for renown, on scraps of learning dote, And think they grow immortal as they quote.
Permalink to quote #12
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