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Promising is the very air o' th' time; it opens the eyes…

“Promising is the very air o' th' time; it opens the eyes of expectation. Performance is ever duller for his act; and, but in the plainer and simpler kind of people, the deed of saying is quite out of use. To promise is most courtly and fashionable; performance is a kind of will or testament which…” quote by William Shakespeare
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“Promising is the very air o' th' time; it opens the eyes of expectation. Performance is ever duller for his act; and, but in the plainer and simpler kind of people, the deed of saying is quite out of use. To promise is most courtly and fashionable; performance is a kind of will or testament which argues a great sickness in his judgment that makes it.”

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.

Empty promises create hope, but only action fulfills expectations.

In simple terms: Promises raise hope; actions deliver results.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize deeds over words.

Themes

expectations promise performance

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political speeches
  • business negotiations
  • personal relationships
  • leadership

Key Concepts

trust integrity social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When do promises become harmful?
  • How can you balance promises with realistic delivery?
A Different Perspective

Words alone cannot sustain credibility.

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