Meaning & Analysis
If the speaker had sought revenge for every offense they suffered, they would not have lived long enough to wear their clothes for an extended period. The 'long skirts' or 'coat' symbolize a long life.
Insights
The Wisdom of Forbearance
The proverb serves as a powerful argument for prudence and forgiveness over the instinct for retaliation. It suggests that a long, successful life is incompatible with the destructive path of seeking vengeance for every slight.
The Self-Destructive Nature of Vengeance
Engaging in constant conflict is self-destructive. The act of 'revenging all wrong' is portrayed as a path that inevitably leads to one's own downfall, preventing the 'long life' symbolized by the well-worn garment.
The Virtue of Selective Engagement
It advises on the practical necessity of choosing one's battles. True strength and wisdom lie not in reacting to every provocation, but in discerning which offenses are worth addressing and which are better ignored for the sake of peace and survival.
Historical Pragmatism
In a historical context where personal honor was often defended through duels and feuds, this proverb offers a pragmatic counter-narrative. It champions long-term survival and stability over the immediate, and often fatal, satisfaction of vengeance.
Psychology of Forbearance
The proverb encapsulates the psychological truth that a life consumed by score-settling is emotionally and physically draining. Forbearance is presented not as weakness, but as a strategy for preserving one's own well-being and longevity.
Socio-Economic Wisdom
The cross-reference to 'the rich man's song' (W944) highlights a socio-economic dimension. Constant conflict is costly and diverts energy from productive pursuits, implying that prosperity is achieved through selective engagement and avoiding petty battles.
Rhetorical Devices
Metaphor
The phrase 'worn my skirts so long' serves as a potent metaphor, where the longevity of a piece of clothing symbolizes the lifespan of its wearer.
Conditional Mood
The use of a conditional 'If I had...' structure frames the proverb as a piece of wisdom gained through experience, giving it a reflective and authoritative tone.
Hyperbole
The term 'all WRONG' is a form of hyperbole that effectively highlights the absurdity and impossibility of reacting to every single grievance, no matter how minor.
Transcription
Quotations
This old sayde sawe, Had I revenged bene of every harme, My coate had never kept me halfe so warme.
(euery wrong)
(Had I revenged every Wrong)
Cross References
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
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