proverb · Words worth keeping
He may well be contented who needs neither borrow nor flatter.
He may well be contented who needs neither borrow nor flatter.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Having enough without depending on borrowing or flattering others can feel freeing. The saying values reduced dependence, without implying that needing help makes someone less worthy or less capable of contentment.
Example
A group appreciates having the equipment it needs for a session, while treating another group’s request to borrow materials as an ordinary need rather than a character flaw.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The paired needs suggest pressures that can complicate a person’s choices: obtaining resources from another and pleasing someone to secure an advantage. Freedom from those pressures is presented as a reason for contentment. It does not follow that all borrowing is improper or that everyone can become independent through attitude alone. Shared support may be useful, and circumstances can leave little choice. The practical point is to notice how a dependency affects an arrangement and whether expectations are clear and fair, rather than turn the proverb into a judgement about people who require assistance.
When to use it
Use it to recognise relief from a particular dependency or pressure to please.
Keep in mind
Needing support is not a moral failure, and borrowing can be a reasonable part of cooperation.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English