And thou, painter, who desirest to achieve the highest excellence in practice, understand that unless thou build it on the solid foundations of nature, thou shalt reap but scant honour and gain by thy work; and if thy foundation is sound, thy works shall be many and good, and bring great honour to thee, and be of great profit.

Meaning: The saying regards a dry, warm August as favourable to harvest. Its reassuring wording expresses a seasonal expectation rather than a complete assessment of crop conditions.

Meaning: The saying promises vigorous beans after sowing in mud. Growing like wood gives its confidence in that method an exaggerated image of strength.

Meaning: The saying regards calm June weather as helping corn develop well. Setting it in tune turns crop growth into a harmonious musical image.

Meaning: The estate is pictured as feeling the effects of prolonged absence from necessary work. The saying questions neglected responsibilities, rather than measuring character by early rising or treating sleep, illness, disability or needed rest as a moral failure.