proverb · Words worth keeping
He who would have a hare for breakfast must hunt over night.
He who would have a hare for breakfast must hunt over night.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
A desired result may require preparation before the moment it is wanted. The breakfast-and-hunt image connects present enjoyment with earlier work, without prescribing hunting or suggesting every outcome can be secured by planning.
Example
A reading group checks that its chosen edition is available before announcing the discussion date, allowing members time to obtain it.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The hare wanted at breakfast is linked to activity the night before in the proverb’s image. Figuratively, some results depend on steps that cannot all be completed at the last moment. A useful response works backwards from the intended occasion to identify what must be arranged earlier and who can reasonably do it. That preparation should remain proportionate: not every wish requires elaborate planning, and unexpected events may still interrupt a careful arrangement. The saying concerns the sequence between preparation and use rather than a guarantee of success, practical hunting guidance or a judgement on people whose resources limit what they can arrange.
When to use it
Use it when an earlier step is needed before a result can be enjoyed at the intended time.
Keep in mind
Allow for limited resources and changing circumstances; preparation improves readiness without guaranteeing the result.
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