Meaning & Analysis
High-quality goods ('good ware') sell quickly and easily because their value is readily apparent to buyers.
Insights
Inherent Worth and Talent
Beyond commerce, the proverb suggests that genuine talent, strong character, or valuable ideas will naturally find acceptance and success. True worth is inherently attractive and does not require forceful promotion to be recognized.
Marketplace of Ideas
The principle applies to the 'marketplace of ideas'. A well-reasoned, sound, and beneficial idea will gain traction and be adopted more swiftly than a flawed or superficial one.
Efficiency of Quality
It implies that investing effort in creating quality from the outset is the most efficient path to success. A superior product or service simplifies the process of finding an audience, saving time and resources on sales and marketing.
Economic Principle
This proverb reflects a core principle of early modern commerce, where craftsmanship and tangible quality were primary drivers of trade. It stands as a timeless reminder that in any economic system, from local artisan markets to global digital platforms, intrinsic value is the most sustainable engine of demand.
Critique of Superficiality
In an era saturated with advertising and branding, the proverb champions substance over presentation. It suggests that long-term success relies on the inherent quality of a product, idea, or skill, which will ultimately 'sell itself' without the need for excessive promotion.
Psychology of Value
The proverb taps into the psychological principle of perceived value. Humans are naturally drawn to quality and reliability. An item of 'good ware' creates confidence and trust, accelerating the decision-making process for the buyer and fostering a positive reputation for the seller.
Rhetorical Devices
Cause and Effect
The proverb uses a straightforward cause-and-effect structure, making its logic direct and impactful. 'Good ware' is the cause, and 'quick markets' is the inevitable effect.
Alliteration and Consonance
The alliteration of 'Good Ware' and the consonance in 'quick markets' create a memorable, rhythmic quality that makes the saying easy to recall and repeat.
Synecdoche and Metonymy
'Ware' serves as a synecdoche for any product, service, or even abstract concept of value, while 'markets' is a metonym for the entire process of trade, demand, and public acceptance.
Transcription
Quotations
(good markets).
(a quick Market).
Good ware will off; will sell it self; makes quick markets.
Good ware will off.
Cross References
- See Otto, no. 1101.
- W63 Good ware will never want a chapman
- W66 Pleasing ware is half sold.
Related Proverbs
Original Scan

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