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To be a good Briton, a man must trade profitably, marry…

“To be a good Briton, a man must trade profitably, marry respectably, live cleanly, avoid excess, revere the established order, and wear his heart in his breeches pocket or anywhere but on his sleeve.” quote by William Ernest Henley
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“To be a good Briton, a man must trade profitably, marry respectably, live cleanly, avoid excess, revere the established order, and wear his heart in his breeches pocket or anywhere but on his sleeve.”

William Ernest Henley

About This Quote

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

A good citizen balances profit, respectability, cleanliness, moderation, tradition, and modesty.

In simple terms: Balance profit, respect, modesty, tradition.

Key Takeaway

Live with balanced virtues.

Themes

citizenship moderation tradition modesty

Mood

thoughtful balanced

Type

ethical social

When to use this quote

  • business
  • family life
  • public service

Key Concepts

social ethics personal conduct

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you practice modesty daily?
  • What traditions guide your decisions?
A Different Perspective

Excess can be beneficial in moderation.

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