Skip to content

Form Quote by William Shakespeare

“That, sir, which serves and seeks for gain, And follows but for form, Will pack, when it begins to rain, And leave thee in a storm.” quote by William Shakespeare
Download Open image
“That, sir, which serves and seeks for gain, And follows but for form, Will pack, when it begins to rain, And leave thee in a storm.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: The Tempest, Act 1, Scene 2 (c. 1611)

People who act only for personal gain and follow appearances will abandon you when difficulties arise.

In simple terms: Self‑interest leads to abandonment in storms.

Key Takeaway

Beware opportunistic allies.

Themes

trust self‑interest betrayal loyalty

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

literary ethical

When to use this quote

  • business partnerships
  • friendships
  • political alliances

Key Concepts

Moral integrity human nature social contracts

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you identify genuine support?
  • What values sustain loyalty during crises?
A Different Perspective

Not all relationships survive hardship.

2.1 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by William Shakespeare

Explore all 5,607 William Shakespeare quotes

More Form quotes

Browse all 12,984 Form quotes