Friday, June 14, 2024

Duality of Candlelight: Quotes on Light and Shadow

Proverbs use candles to depict dangers hidden by light. 'The fly & the candle' warns of recklessness. Quotes explore duality of light & shadow.


⊙ Quote of the Day: A Warning Against Recklessness


Duality of Candlelight: Quotes on Light and Shadow

The fly flutters about the candle till last it gets burned.

- Proverb -


The exact origin of the proverb remains a mystery, but it is believed to be centuries old and possibly of German origin or a reference to Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. It has appeared in various forms in different languages and cultures. Similar proverbs include "Whoever plays with fire gets burned" and "A moth flies around a candle until it is burned to death."

  • Similar proverbs and phrases:

  1. Whoever plays with fire gets burned.
  2. If you play with fire, you will get burned.
  3. Those who play with fire eventually get burned.
  4. A moth flies around a candle until it is burned to death. People in love do the same thing, to their own detriment. 

These sayings have a figurative meaning. They warn that repeatedly placing oneself in risky situations will eventually lead to harmful consequences. This proverb serves as a reminder to be cautious and avoid reckless behavior that could expose one to danger.


As such, proverbs and sayings related to the word "candle" often have a dual meaning. They represent hope but also warn of the dangers that lurk behind the alluring flame, highlighting the potential for self-sacrifice in the face of danger. The strange charm of the candle, the warning of danger concealed by the comforting warmth, and the self-consuming nature of the flame are all captured in these expressions.


⊙ Burning Bright, Hiding Darkness: Unmasking the Duality of Candles


  • Choose neither a woman nor linen by candle light. 
  • Never choose your women or your linen by candlelight.

  • The foot of the candle is dark.

  • Never burn a penny candle looking for a halfpenny. - Irish Proverb

  • Burn not thy fingers to snoff another man's candle. - James Howell

  • Don't be like a candle. Because the candle dies while making others happy. Clever is the one who finds a way to make others happy without sacrificing himself. - Mehmet Murad Ildan -

  • How far that little candle throws its beams. So shines a good deed in a naughty world. - William Shakespeare

  • Go within every day and find the inner strength so that the world will not blow your candle out. - Katherine Dunham



Additional resources:

Stay Alert: Wolves in Sheep's Clothing Among Us

Quote of the Day - Vigilance and Relationships: Insights from The Godfather Part II

Quote of the Day: Wisdom from The Godfather- The Impact of Hatred on Judgment


Motivational Quotes To Inspire You.

#Candlelight #Duality #Light & Shadow #Warnings #Recklessness #Danger #Sacrifice #Hope 

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