A MAN must sell his wares according to the rates of the market

Insights

Adaptation to Circumstance

The proverb advises that one must adapt to prevailing circumstances and social conventions. To succeed, an individual must tailor their actions, ideas, or skills ('wares') to the demands and expectations ('rates') of their environment ('the market').

Submission to External Forces

It suggests that success is often dictated by external forces beyond individual control. One's intrinsic value or effort is secondary to the demands of the system in which they operate, requiring conformity and strategic positioning.

Pragmatism over Idealism

This serves as a warning against idealism or inflexibility. It implies that holding out for a self-determined 'price' or value that the world does not recognize will lead to failure; one must be realistic and pragmatic.

Economic Pragmatism

This proverb encapsulates the fundamental economic principle of supply and demand, reflecting a worldview where value is determined not by the producer's labor or sentiment, but by external market forces. It champions pragmatism over idealism.

Social Conformity

The cross-reference 'As the market goes wives must sell' reveals the proverb's broader application to social dynamics, suggesting that individuals must adapt their personal 'value' or behavior to align with prevailing social norms and expectations to succeed or find acceptance.

Psychology of Realism

Psychologically, the proverb serves as a corrective against stubbornness or an inflated sense of self-worth. It advises individuals to realistically assess their environment and adjust their expectations and offerings to what the 'market'—be it a job market, social circle, or intellectual community—is willing to accept.

Rhetorical Devices

Extended Metaphor

The proverb uses the 'market' as a broad metaphor for any social, professional, or economic environment, and 'wares' to represent one's skills, ideas, or contributions.

Imperative Mood

The use of the word 'must' gives the proverb a strong, prescriptive tone, presenting its advice not as a suggestion but as a necessary rule for survival and success.

Didactic Tone

The proverb has a straightforward, declarative structure that makes its commercial and social lesson clear, memorable, and easily applicable.