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Drink, sir, is a great provoker of three things…

“Drink, sir, is a great provoker of three things . . . nose-painting, sleep, and urine. Lechery, sir, it provokes, and unprovokes; it provokes the desire, but it takes away the performance.” quote by William Shakespeare
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“Drink, sir, is a great provoker of three things . . . nose-painting, sleep, and urine. Lechery, sir, it provokes, and unprovokes; it provokes the desire, but it takes away the performance.”

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.

Alcohol stimulates desire but impairs performance, creating a paradox of provocation and inhibition.

In simple terms: Alcohol provokes and hinders.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the double‑edged nature of indulgence.

Themes

addiction human nature paradox

Mood

cautionary reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • social gatherings
  • personal reflection
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

desire performance self‑control

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives you to seek pleasure despite costs?
  • How can you balance desire and responsibility?
A Different Perspective

Alcohol can undermine goals despite its allure.

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