Every man Quote by Esther M. Friesner
““Here’s a lesson for you, lad.” Melitta leaned forward and poked him sharply in the ribs with one gnarled finger. “Don’t drink heavily at your enemy’s table, especially when your enemy claims to be your friend. The instant that Prince Jason swore he’d bring back the Fleece, the king quickly promised his nephew a fine new ship and supplies.” She took another bite of fish and bread before concluding, “If I had a sheep for every man who made his own trouble by swearing a stupid oath while drunk, I’d be a rich woman.””
About This Quote
Source Short story: “The Sheep and the Oath” from the anthology “The Dragon’s Teeth,” 2005
Drinking heavily leads to reckless vows; such oaths bring trouble and can be exploited by others.
In simple terms: Drunk promises cause problems.
Key Takeaway
Avoid making vows while intoxicated.
Themes
responsibility
drunkenness
trust
betrayal
Mood
cautious
witty
Type
narrative
didactic
When to use this quote
- banquets
- political negotiations
- friendship
Key Concepts
social contracts
personal discipline
Questions to Reflect On
- What strategies help maintain composure in social settings?
- How can you protect yourself from others’ reckless promises?
A Different Perspective
It may overgeneralize the behavior of all drunk individuals.
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