Men are but children of a larger growth, Our appetites as apt to change as theirs, And full as craving too, and full as vain.
John DrydenRead
He who trusts secrets to a servant makes him his master
Interpretation
What this quote means
Trusting someone with secrets can give them power over you.
This quote by John Dryden highlights the inherent risks involved in sharing intimate information with others, particularly those in subordinate roles. By entrusting secrets to someone, you inadvertently elevate their position in your relationship, as they now hold the potential to wield influence or authority over you based on that knowledge. It serves as a cautionary reminder to be discerning about whom you confide in, as such trust can shift dynamics in unexpected ways.
Themes
TrustSecretsPowerRelationshipsWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
During a team meeting on confidentiality, one could say, 'He who trusts secrets to a servant makes him his master' to emphasize the importance of discretion.
More from John Dryden
All quotes βOf no distemper, of no blast he died, _x000D_ But fell like autumn fruit that mellow'd long: _x000D_ Even wonder'd at, because he dropp'd no sooner. _x000D_ Fate seem'd to wind him up for fourscore years; _x000D_ Yet freshly ran he on ten winters more; _x000D_ Till like a clock worn out with eating time, _x000D_ The wheels of weary life at last stood still.
John DrydenRead
Or hast thou known the world so long in vain?
John DrydenRead
Shame on the body for breaking down while the spirit perseveres.
John DrydenRead
Love reckons hours for months, and days for years; and every little absence is an age.
John DrydenRead
And write whatever Time shall bring to pass_x000D_ _x000D_ With pens of adamant on plates of brass.
John DrydenRead
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Surely the experience of all good men confirms the proposition that without a due measure of private devotions the soul will grow lean.
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