Gipsies, who every ill can cure, Except the ill of being…
“Gipsies, who every ill can cure, Except the ill of being poor Who charms 'gainst love and agues sell, Who can in hen-roost set a spell, Prepar'd by arts, to them best known To catch all feet except their own, Who, as to fortune, can unlock it, As easily as pick a pocket.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People exploit others' vulnerabilities, especially poverty, using cunning tricks.
In simple terms: The poor are preyed upon by clever deceivers.
Beware manipulation rooted in desperation.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- charity work
- policy making
- personal finance
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards protect the vulnerable?
- How can society reduce such exploitation?
Not all cunning is malicious; context matters.