That which the French proverb hath of sickness is true of…
“That which the French proverb hath of sickness is true of all evils, that they come on horseback, and go away on foot; we have often seen a sudden fall or one meal's surfeit hath stuck by many to their graves; whereas pleasures come like oxen, slow, and heavily, and go away like post-horses, upon the spur.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The proverb contrasts sudden, severe illnesses with slow, lingering pleasures, suggesting that pain arrives quickly and leaves fast, while pleasure is gradual and lingers.
In simple terms: Illness is sudden, pleasure is slow.
Key Takeaway
Beware of overindulgence.
Themes
health
pleasure
time
balance
Mood
reflective
cautionary
Type
proverbial
philosophical
When to use this quote
- medical crises
- feasting
- longevity planning
- stress management
Key Concepts
mortality
temptation
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance immediate pleasure with long-term health?
- What habits help moderate excess?
A Different Perspective
Pleasures can become harmful if unchecked.