The vessel, though her masts be firm, Beneath her copper bears a worm.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Thoreau uses a metaphor of a ship whose strong masts hide a worm beneath its copper hull, suggesting hidden decay despite outward strength.
- In plain terms
- Even strong appearances can hide internal rot.
- What can you take from it?
- Beware of hidden problems beneath a solid exterior.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What signs reveal hidden issues?
- How can we balance confidence and caution?
Another view
Metaphor may be too vague for specific guidance.
More from Henry David Thoreau
It would be worthy of the age to print together the collected Scriptures or Sacred Writings of the several nations, the Chinese, the Hindoos, the Persians, the…
Permalink to quote #83 Far from New England's blustering shore, New England's worm her hulk shall bore, And sink her in the Indian seas, Twine, wine, and hides, and China teas.
Permalink to quote #85 It is remarkable that, notwithstanding the universal favor with which the New Testament is outwardly received, and even the bigotry with which it is defended, …
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