proverb · Words worth keeping
Rich garments weep on unworthy shoulders.
Rich garments weep on unworthy shoulders.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Fine clothing cannot establish the character of the person wearing it. The weeping garments turn outward distinction into criticism of conduct, rather than a judgement of anyone’s human worth.
Example
A committee considers how an award recipient has treated colleagues rather than treating ceremonial dress as evidence that the honour was well earned.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The garments are imagined as grieving over the shoulders on which they rest. Their richness contrasts with the conduct implied by unworthy: an impressive presentation has not been matched by the person’s actions. Ask whether an honour, title or display is being used to substitute for responsibility. The clothes cannot actually judge their wearer, and the saying supplies no proof about a real individual. Reading it critically separates a question about deserving an honour from the unacceptable claim that someone has less basic dignity.
When to use it
Use it to distinguish an outward mark of distinction from the conduct expected of its holder.
Keep in mind
Do not infer character from clothing, wealth or social position; judge the relevant actions.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional (French-language collection)
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown