As honour, love, obedience, troops of friends, / I must not look to have; but, in their stead, / Curses, not loud but deep, mouth-honour, breath, / Which the poor heart would fain deny, and dare not" (5.3.25-28).
Well, God give them wisdom that have it; and those that are fools, let them use their talents.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Wisdom should be granted to those who possess it, while those lacking it can still find value in their own abilities.
This quote from Shakespeare suggests that wisdom is a valuable trait that should be bestowed upon those who are capable of handling it. Conversely, it implies that even those who may not be wise can still utilize their talents and skills, highlighting the idea that everyone has something to contribute, regardless of their level of wisdom. It reflects a balance between recognizing the importance of wisdom and acknowledging the potential of those who may not be as wise but are still talented in their own right.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about recognizing individual potential, you might say, 'Well, God give them wisdom that have it; and those that are fools, let them use their talents.'
More from William Shakespeare
All quotes βLove bears it out even to the edge of doom.
Good company, good wine, good welcome, can make good people.
Absence doth sharpen love, presence strengthens it; the one brings fuel, the other blows it till it burns clear.
Lord, Lord, how this world is given to lying!
Give it an understanding, but no tongue.
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