Most of those who make collections of verse or epigram are like men eating cherries or oysters: they choose out the best at first, and end by eating all.
Nicolas Chamfort's quote highlights the tendency of collectors to initially curate the best pieces and eventually consume everything. This witty remark pokes fun at the obsessive nature of some individuals, who become fixated on acquiring and possessing the finest items, only to end up with a collection that lacks depth and nuance.
The quote emphasizes the importance of moderation and balance in one's pursuits, warning against the dangers of excess and the fleeting nature of pleasure.
Nicolas Chamfort, a French writer and philosopher, penned this quote in the late 18th century, a time marked by the rise of Enlightenment values and the emergence of new social norms.
Nicolas Chamfort was a French writer, philosopher, and satirist who lived during the late 18th century. He was known for his sharp wit, clever wordplay, and biting social commentary, which often targeted the excesses and pretensions of the French aristocracy.
This quote can serve as a reminder to cultivate a sense of balance and moderation in one's personal and professional pursuits, lest one become consumed by the pursuit of perfection and lose sight of the bigger picture.