Power wears out those who do not have it Popular culture Aphorism 20th century. United States. 0 0 0 0 Write the first comment Meaning The phrase implies that the pursuit or desire for power can fatigue individuals who are not in positions of authority. Philosophically, it aligns with ideas about envy, ambition, and the burdens that power can impose on those who strive for it. Psychologically, it suggests that unfulfilled longing for power can lead to a sense of exhaustion or dissatisfaction, hinting at deeper societal implications. Allegory The image elements symbolize the tension between the pursuit of power and the exhaustion it brings. The weary figure represents those who are burdened by the desire for authority, while the crown of chains illustrates the heavy responsibilities that power entails. The serene landscape symbolizes the freedom and tranquility found outside the quest for power, inviting the viewer to reflect on their own ambitions and the toll they may take. Applicability Individuals can apply this idea to recognize the psychological toll that envy or the desire for control can take on one's well-being, encouraging a mindset of contentment and introspection rather than relentless ambition. Impact This phrase contributes to the wider discourse on power, leadership, and human psychology, echoing in discussions surrounding political leadership and personal ambition. It challenges individuals to reconsider their relationship with power and its implications for mental health and societal function. Historical Context While the exact historical context is unclear, the phrase likely arises from modern discussions about politics and sociology, especially in the last century as power dynamics became a central subject in numerous fields including psychology and political science. Criticisms Critics might argue that the statement minimizes the complexities of power dynamics or the motivations behind individuals’ pursuit of power. Some may assert that ambition can drive positive change, countering the notion that it is merely exhausting. Variations Variations of this phrase exist in many cultures that highlight the burdens of leadership or desire for power, such as the Chinese saying 'He who seeks power will be consumed by it', emphasizing a universal understanding of the topic. Go back to the description 280 characters left Send Comment No Comments I don't like violence, Tom. I'm a businessman. Blood is a big expense. Oliver Stone Read more Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in. Michael Corleone (character) Read more I’m surrounded by idiots. Popular Culture (The Lion King) Read more Finance is a gun. Politics is knowing when to pull the trigger. Warren Buffett Read more I want you to go in that bag and find my wallet. Popular culture Read more In Sicily, women are more dangerous than shotguns. Popular culture reference from Sicilian folklore Read more To infinity and beyond! Buzz Lightyear (character from Toy Story) Read more Michael, we're bigger than U.S. Steel. Charles Foster Kane (fictional character) Read more I spent my whole life trying not to be careless. Women and children can afford to be careless, but not men. Ernest Hemingway Read more This is the life we chose, the life we lead. And there is only one guarantee: none of us will see heaven. Denzel Washington (as Alonzo Harris) Read more All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle. Eleanor Roosevelt Read more Luca Brasi sleeps with the fishes. Mario Puzo Read more By signing in, you'll enable saving your preferences and be able to post comments. By signing in, you'll enable saving your preferences and be able to post comments. Sign in with: or with your email address: Email Password Sign in Loading... Name Insert your name or nick (3 to 20 char). Email Insert a valid email address to be verified. Password 8+ chars, 1 uppercase, 1 lowercase, 1 number, 1 special @$!%*?_+ Clicking the Create account button will send you a verification email. Create account New here? Sign up. Previous Close
In Sicily, women are more dangerous than shotguns. Popular culture reference from Sicilian folklore Read more
I spent my whole life trying not to be careless. Women and children can afford to be careless, but not men. Ernest Hemingway Read more
This is the life we chose, the life we lead. And there is only one guarantee: none of us will see heaven. Denzel Washington (as Alonzo Harris) Read more
All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle. Eleanor Roosevelt Read more