Meaning & Analysis
Literally, the proverb states that the only truly good person is one who has never failed, implying such perfection is rare or impossible.
Insights
Universality of Failure
The saying points to the inevitability of human error, subtly suggesting that all people fail at some point, and that to expect otherwise is unrealistic.
Tolerance and Forgiveness
Encourages understanding and forgiveness toward others’ shortcomings, especially if they have generally been dependable or virtuous.
Illusion of Perfection
Underscores the idea that moral or personal perfection is an ideal rarely, if ever, achieved, and those who appear flawless are likely exceptions, not the rule.
Historical Symbolism
Echoes other proverbial wisdom, such as 'It is a good horse that never stumbles,' reinforcing a longstanding recognition that mistakes are part of human (and animal) experience.
Literary and Cultural Resonance
This proverb and its variants have been cited in Scottish and English tradition to foster leniency and perspective when judging others, especially friends or those with a history of good conduct.
Psychological Dimensions
Psychologically, the proverb advocates for empathy, discouraging harshness in response to isolated failings and recognizing the value of a broader, more compassionate perspective on character.
Rhetorical Devices
Antithesis
Contrasts the idea of a 'good' person with the inevitability of 'failure,' highlighting the tension between aspiration and reality.
Implicit Irony
The literal wording subtly implies irony, as it describes a condition (never failing) that is nearly unattainable, thus teaching humility.
Elliptical Expression
The concise, somewhat ambiguous phrasing invites interpretation and reflection, giving the proverb a meditative quality.
Transcription
Quotations
He is ane good man that falled never.
*A Persuasion to bear the Neglects of a Friend, who has, on other Occasions, been beneficial to you.
Cross References
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
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