There's not a thing on earth that I can name, So foolish, and so false, as common fame.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author claims that public opinion or reputation is foolish and false.
- In plain terms
- What people say about others is often untrue and silly.
- What can you take from it?
- Do not trust public opinion as a measure of truth.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What is the value of reputation?
- Can public opinion be right?
Another view
Fame can sometimes reflect genuine achievement not just noise.
More from John, 2nd Earl of Rochester Wilmot
It is a good world to live in, To lend, or to spend, or to give in; But to beg or to borrow, or to get a man's own, It is the very worst world that ever was kn…
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