Industry need not wish, and he that lives upon hopes will…
“Industry need not wish, and he that lives upon hopes will die fasting. There are no gains without pains. He that hath a trade hath an estate, and he that hath a calling hath an office of profit and honor; but then the trade must be worked at and the calling followed, or neither the estate nor the office will enable us to pay our taxes. If we are industrious, we shall never starve; for at the workingman's house hunger looks in, but dares not enter. Nor will the bailiff or the constable enter, for industry pays debts, while idleness and neglect increase them.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Hard work and a clear vocation prevent poverty; idleness leads to debt and hunger.
In simple terms: Industry avoids hunger; idleness brings debt.
Key Takeaway
Work diligently in your trade.
Themes
industry
responsibility
economics
morality
Mood
determined
pragmatic
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- starting a business
- career planning
- financial budgeting
- community support
Key Concepts
capitalism
work ethic
social stability
Questions to Reflect On
- What vocation aligns with your strengths?
- How can society support the idle?
A Different Perspective
Hard work alone may not guarantee success without opportunity.