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It's better to swim in the sea below Than to swing in the…

“It's better to swim in the sea below Than to swing in the air and feed the crow, Says jolly Ned Teach of Bristol.” quote by Benjamin Franklin
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“It's better to swim in the sea below Than to swing in the air and feed the crow, Says jolly Ned Teach of Bristol.”

Benjamin Franklin

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Choosing practical, grounded actions (swimming) is wiser than lofty, impractical pursuits (swinging).

In simple terms: Practical work beats empty ambition.

Key Takeaway

Focus on realistic goals.

Themes

practicality humility wisdom choice

Mood

lighthearted didactic

Type

moral inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • skill development
  • risk assessment
  • daily chores

Key Concepts

fable metaphor life‑lesson

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it worth taking a risk?
  • How do you balance ambition with realism?
A Different Perspective

Idealism can inspire progress despite practicality.

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