Skip to content

Being of no power to make his wishes good: His promises…

“Being of no power to make his wishes good: His promises fly so beyond his state That what he speaks is all in debt; he owes For every word.” quote by William Shakespeare
Download Open image
“Being of no power to make his wishes good: His promises fly so beyond his state That what he speaks is all in debt; he owes For every word.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

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

A person lacking authority cannot fulfill promises, making every word a debt.

In simple terms: Powerless promises become burdensome.

Key Takeaway

Recognize limits of influence.

Themes

authority promise responsibility

Mood

reflective serious

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political negotiations
  • personal relationships
  • leadership decisions

Key Concepts

social contract ethical duty

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you manage expectations when you lack control?
  • What responsibilities arise from spoken commitments?
A Different Perspective

Even with power, promises may still be unfulfilled.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by William Shakespeare

Explore all 5,604 William Shakespeare quotes

More Debt quotes

Browse all 2,345 Debt quotes