Better a dish of husks to the accompaniment of a muted lute than to be satiated with stewed shark's fin and rich spiced wine of which the cost is frequently mentioned by the provider.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Simple food with modest music is better than rich food when the giver constantly boasts about its cost.
- In plain terms
- Simple meals with quiet music are better than expensive meals with bragging.
- What can you take from it?
- Modesty in hospitality beats arrogance with luxury.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is it better to be modest or lavish?
- How does pride affect hospitality?
Another view
Wealth and generosity are not mutually exclusive.
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