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About this quote

What does it mean?
Webster notes that prosperity can be deceptive, while hidden dangers (rocks) cause the sea to laugh.
In plain terms
Wealth may mislead, but hidden rocks cause trouble.
What can you take from it?
Beware of superficial success that hides real risks.

Where it applies

  • financial decisions
  • venture planning

Putting it to work

  • perform due diligence
  • look beyond appearances

Questions to consider

  • What signs reveal hidden dangers?
  • How can we differentiate true success?

Another view

Not all wealth is deceptive; many are earned honestly.

More from John Webster

  1. But keep the wolf far thence, that's foe to men, For with his nails he'll dig them up again.

    Permalink to quote #6
  2. Glories, like glowworms, afar off shine bright, But looked to near have neither heat nor light.

    Permalink to quote #8
  3. Call for the robin redbreast and the wren, Since o'er shady groves they hover, And with leaves and flowers do cover The friendless bodies of unburied men.

    Permalink to quote #5

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