Meaning & Analysis
The proverb advises deferring a decision until the next day after having had a night's sleep to think it over. It literally means to consider a matter while resting in bed.
Insights
Value of Rest and Deliberation
The pillow symbolizes the power of rest and time to bring clarity. By 'sleeping on it', one can approach a problem with a calmer, more refreshed, and rational mindset, free from the emotional turmoil or haste of the moment.
Inner Wisdom and Intuition
'Counsel of your pillow' refers to the process of introspection and accessing one's own subconscious wisdom. The solitude and quiet of the night provide an opportunity to listen to one's inner voice or intuition, away from external influences.
A Confidant for Private Thoughts
The pillow acts as a private, non-judgmental confidant. It represents a safe space for unfiltered thought and emotional release, where one can explore difficult truths or 'overcharged' feelings before deciding on a course of action.
Psychological and Cultural Wisdom
The proverb reflects a long-standing cultural belief, echoed in the cross-referenced 'Night is the mother of counsels', that rest and quiet contemplation are essential for sound judgment. This aligns with modern psychological understanding of how sleep aids in emotional regulation and problem-solving, allowing for a clearer perspective away from the immediate pressures of the day.
Literary Depth
Shakespeare elevates the concept by portraying the pillow as a silent confidant for 'overcharged' souls. In his works, the pillow is not just a tool for rational thought but a repository for our deepest secrets and anxieties, highlighting the intimate, private nature of the counsel it provides.
Introspection and Self-Reliance
The act of 'consulting' a pillow implies a shift from external advice to internal wisdom. It champions introspection and trusting one's own subconscious to process complex information, suggesting that the best answers often emerge from within after a period of quiet reflection.
Rhetorical Devices
Personification
The proverb personifies the inanimate pillow, elevating it to the status of a wise counselor or advisor. This rhetorical device makes the abstract concept of introspection feel tangible and accessible.
Metaphor
The pillow serves as a metaphor for the subconscious mind and the restorative, clarifying power of sleep. The physical act of resting one's head becomes a symbol for engaging in deep internal processing.
Imperative Mood
The use of the imperative verb 'Take' gives the proverb the direct and memorable force of a piece of practical, handed-down advice, making it feel both authoritative and helpful.
Transcription
Quotations
Than truely lyued I lyke one that sleapeth on bothe his eares. i. Than had I nothynge to breake my slepe with, but that I myght take my golden slepe in the mornynge and tourne me on the other syde to rounde [whisper] with my pyllowe.
You counsel me to take counsel of mi pillow.
Shee . . willed him to spende the night in pleasant conceytes . . N.O. graunting hyr the aduice of hyr pillow, seemed content.
If plaiers take a little more counsell of their pillowes, they shall finde them selues to be the worste.
Then he desired to look upon his instructions, to advise with his pillow.
Ile take counsell of my pillow.
Night giues aduise; We say, take counsell of your pillow.
(on your pillow).
Consult with your pillow.
To make ones accounts with the boulster, viz. to sleep upon't, and consult with ones pillow.
You say well, Philopolis, it will not be amiss to consul with one's Pillow, as the Proverb is, and sleep upon 't.
(ones pillow).
To take counsel of (to consult with) ones pillow.
Shakespeare Citations
And whispers to his pillow, as to him, The secrets of his overcharged soul.
Infected minds To their deaf pillows will discharge their secrets.
You think none but your sheets are privy to your wishes.
Cross References
- See St., no. 213.
- N174 Night is the mother of counsels.
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
Used under CC BY-NC 3.0.