In working well, if travail you sustain, Into the wind…
“In working well, if travail you sustain, Into the wind shall lightly pass the pain; But of the deed the glory shall remain, And cause your name with worthy wights to reign. In working wrong, if pleasure you attain, The pleasure soon shall fade, and void as vain; But of the deed throughout the life the shame Endures, defacing you with foul defame.”
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 yields lasting honor, while fleeting pleasure leads to shame that tarnishes reputation.
In simple terms: Hard work brings lasting glory; pleasure is temporary and can bring shame.
Key Takeaway
Choose lasting honor over short‑term pleasure.
Themes
virtue
consequence
reputation
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
moral
didactic
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- financial choices
- relationships
- creative projects
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
ethics
legacy
Questions to Reflect On
- What short‑term pleasures risk your reputation?
- How can you align actions with lasting honor?
A Different Perspective
Short‑term pleasure may be tempting but can damage long‑term reputation.