Meaning & Analysis
The proverb literally means that a person is aware of which side of a slice of bread has butter on it, implying a basic recognition of where the value or goodness lies.
Insights
Awareness of Self-Interest
The proverb describes a person who understands their own self-interest and knows what actions or allegiances will bring them the most advantage, security, or financial benefit.
Pragmatic Opportunism
It suggests a shrewd, practical, and sometimes opportunistic nature. The individual is adept at navigating social or professional situations to ensure they receive the greatest benefit, regardless of other considerations.
Understanding Power Dynamics
The 'buttered side' symbolizes the source of one's well-being, power, or income. The proverb implies an acute understanding of power dynamics and the importance of staying in favor with those who provide for them.
Symbolism of Sustenance
Bread and butter are historical symbols of basic sustenance and livelihood. Butter, as a fat, represents added value, richness, and comfort. The proverb grounds the abstract concept of self-interest in the tangible, everyday necessity of food, making its meaning immediate and universally understood.
Psychological Realism
The proverb subtly critiques purely self-serving behavior. While acknowledging the subject's shrewdness, it often carries a cynical undertone, implying that their loyalty is conditional and guided solely by personal gain rather than principle or allegiance.
Cultural Pragmatism
This saying reflects a pragmatic, and perhaps materialistic, worldview where survival and prosperity depend on correctly identifying and aligning with sources of power and resources. Its consistent use since the 16th century, as shown in the quotations, highlights its enduring relevance in social and economic commentary.
Rhetorical Devices
Metaphor
The core of the proverb is a metaphor where 'buttered bread' represents personal advantage, financial security, and the source of one's livelihood.
Imagery
The simple, domestic image of a slice of bread makes the abstract concept of opportunism and self-interest concrete, relatable, and memorable.
Idiom
The phrase functions as a widely understood idiom, where the figurative meaning is paramount and universally recognized within English-speaking cultures.
Transcription
Quotations
For all those wyse words vttred, I knowe on whiche syde my breade is buttred.
He knoweth vpon whiche side his breade is buttered well enough.
One that could quickly perceiue on which side my bread was buttered.
Knewe for all on which side of his bread The sweetness of the butter was yspread.
(on what side).
(is buttered on).
He knows well enough what side his bread is butterd upon.
To understand, to know which side his bread's butter'd on.
He knows which side his bread is butter'd on.
*What is good for himself.
He knows what side his Bread is buttered on. *That is, he knows well where his Interest lyes.
He knows which Side of his Bread is butter'd.
Cross References
- See DÜR., II, no. 666.
- K178 To know what is what.
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
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