Meaning & Analysis
In some situations, running away (using one's heels, legs, or feet) is more valuable than staying and working or fighting (using one's hands).
Insights
Prudence Over Bravery
The proverb metaphorically prioritizes the value of a timely retreat over futile effort or confrontation, suggesting that escape can be wiser or more effective than struggling in vain.
Resourcefulness and Self-Preservation
It underscores the practical advantage of adaptability and survival instinct, implying that knowing when to withdraw or avoid danger is often a more valuable skill than persistence or labor.
Relativity of Virtue
The saying relativizes the virtue of effort—sometimes action (fleeing) is more appropriate than diligence or bravery, reflecting a nuanced understanding of context and circumstance.
Historical Attitude Toward Retreat
The proverb echoes the sentiment found in 'He that fights and runs away may live to fight another day,' emphasizing long-term prudence over short-term valor, and recognizing that survival is sometimes the greatest achievement.
Practical Wisdom for the Vulnerable
Traditionally, such proverbs were particularly relevant for those outmatched or at risk, humorously advocating flight as the wiser option for the weak or outnumbered.
Cultural Reassessment of Cowardice
The saying challenges rigid valorization of courage by acknowledging the legitimacy and even necessity of strategic withdrawal, thus complicating notions of honor and heroism.
Linguistic Playfulness
The proverb uses playful comparison and reversal, giving an unexpected advantage to the usually undervalued act of running away.
Rhetorical Devices
Antithesis
The direct contrast between 'heels (legs, feet)' and 'hands' sharpens the proverb’s message and dramatizes the unexpected value of retreat.
Paronomasia (Wordplay)
The switching of bodily parts (heels, legs, feet vs. hands) creates a witty, memorable image and playful effect.
Ellipsis
By leaving the reason for flight unsaid, the proverb invites listeners to infer the wisdom of timely escape, making it adaptable and suggestive.
Transcription
Quotations
If one paire of legs had not bene worth two paire of hands He had had his bearde shaven if My nayles wold have served.
(feete).
(One paire of legs are).
One paire of running legges, are worth two paire of working hands.
(legges).
Better one pair of feet, then two pair of hands.
(sometimes is worth).
(was worth).
(of Hands by a time).
Cross References
Annotations
- Especially to them who are better at fleeing than fighting.
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
Used under CC BY-NC 3.0.