English Proverbs

Proverbs are sayings which has transcended down through generations. One can make a point of view more emphatic using a proverb. There is a huge collection of proverbs in ancient literature. Though modern ones are coming through, there is more fun in exploring the deep meanings of proverbs. One can use them as idioms or classify them as a moral of a story. It is also a good way to teach children about proverbs. Simple things like timeliness is taught with, ‘ A stitch in time saves nine’. The ‘Grapes our sour’ loudly qualifies. ‘ No gains without pains’. Kids love narration and use the same in bed time stories.

The study of English literature does entail detailed study of proverbs. Most of the folk tradition survives on proverbs as this was also used as a medium to convey strong thoughts and emotions. Classic styles were used in enactment of drama. Many times an Act in a drama sequence was started off with a proverb. Sayings are age old and evergreen form of styling. It is important to use the proverbs correct while delivering a speech or during the conversation else a misinterpretation can be embarrassing.

Romance is highlighted with, ‘ Absence makes the heart grow fonder’. Also there is a paradox in‘ Out of sight, out of mind’ Such proverbs can be used to add meaning to a emotion or to qualify the profound feelings. ‘ Kindness begets kindness’ is one way to emphasize on the quality of giving and sharing. There is much truth in ‘ Ignorance is bliss’ as many times when we relate to the truth, life gets tough.

‘If you chase two rabbits, you will get none’ is perfect when we want to realize too many dreams. Multi tasking is the need of the hour but again it is not wise to follow double pursuits. ‘ A bird in a hand is worth two in a bush’ is another way of saying that many times complacency is a good attribute. ‘ It never rains but it pours’ signifies that bad things in life come all together.

‘ Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me’ is the best way to correct one’s folly. This is the best way to remember in life and be wary of people who have cheated on you. ‘ Small things come in small packages’, is also exemplified in ‘ Great oaks grow from little acorns ‘. ‘ Every path has its puddle’ is another idea which goes on to mention the problems in life. Overcoming challenges is what makes life worthy and this leads to happiness.