proverb · Words worth keeping
The young suckers drain the old tree.
The young suckers drain the old tree.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
New growth can draw on resources supplied by an older source. The tree image invites attention to dependence without making younger people a burden by nature.
Example
An established group supports a new project while agreeing on the resources each will need and how responsibilities can be shared.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The young shoots are pictured as using what the old tree provides. As a metaphor, it can describe care, succession or new work supported by an established undertaking. It should not become a claim that young people merely drain their elders. A useful reading asks what support is being given, what limits are real and how the relationship can remain fair and reciprocal.
When to use it
Use it to discuss support for new growth and the capacity of its source.
Keep in mind
Age does not determine who contributes or who depends on others.
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