Meaning & Analysis
When the support or care provided (like that of a foster parent) ends, so too does the friendship or affectionate relationship ('leman' meaning beloved).
Insights
Conditional Affection
The proverb suggests that some friendships or relationships endure only as long as material benefit, care, or support is provided. When the 'fostering' stops, the bond dissolves, revealing its transactional nature.
Self-Interest in Relationships
It highlights the tendency of certain individuals to value relationships not for genuine affection or loyalty, but for the personal gain or nurturing they receive.
Historical Symbolism
The proverb draws on the analogy of the foster-parent relationship, a potent symbol in medieval and early modern culture for dependent bonds. The inclusion of 'leman' (beloved or darling) extends the critique to romantic as well as platonic ties, exposing the fragility of affection based on advantage.
Cultural Resonance
Across societies, similar sayings caution against trusting in relationships sustained only by ongoing benefit. The proverb aligns with folk wisdom skeptical of fair-weather friends or lovers who disappear when support is withdrawn.
Psychological Dimensions
The proverb reveals the disappointment and cynicism that arise when relationships, seemingly based on affection, prove to be driven by self-interest. It warns of the impermanence and instability of bonds not rooted in mutual care.
Rhetorical Devices
Parallelism
The mirrored structure ('No longer foster, no longer friend') gives the proverb a rhythmic balance and emphasizes causality.
Ellipsis
The omission of explicit actors or motives invites the listener to fill in the meaning, making the message broadly applicable.
Archaic Diction
The use of 'foster' and 'leman' imparts a literary and historical flavor, linking the proverb to earlier cultural contexts.
Transcription
Quotations
(lemman)
Annotations
- fostering (i.e., as a foster parent)
- darling, beloved one
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
Used under CC BY-NC 3.0.