Prosperity doth bewitch men, seeming clear; But seas do laugh, show white, when rocks are near.
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
Putting it to work
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
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 Glories, like glowworms, afar off shine bright, But looked to near have neither heat nor light.
Permalink to quote #8 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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