It is an amazing feature in the French character that they will let themselves be led away so easily by bad counsels and yet return again so quickly. It is certain that as these people have, out of their misery, treated us so well, we are the more bound to work for their happiness.

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.

Meaning: Starting well is useful, but carrying the work through to a worthwhile result matters more. Do not let an impressive opening replace the attention needed to complete what you began.

Meaning: The saying prefers a position others envy to one they pity, treating envy as a sign of apparent advantage. That comparison exposes a concern with social standing rather than proving that either reaction accurately describes someone’s life.

Meaning: Enjoyment can feel uncomplicated until the responsibilities attached to it become clear. The feast and its reckoning contrast immediate pleasure with the later account, without condemning celebration or predicting that enjoyment must end badly.