Promises and pie-crust are made to be broken.
What’s the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote “Promises and pie-crust are made to be broken” draws a vivid comparison between two seemingly unrelated things: promises and pie crusts. At its core, the saying suggests that both promises and pie crusts are inherently fragile and unreliable.
A pie crust, in the culinary world, is known for its delicate nature. It’s easily crumbled, flaking apart with the slightest touch. This fragility serves as a metaphor for promises, which, like a pie crust, can be easily broken or abandoned. Just as a pie crust is often not as solid or dependable as one might hope, promises can often turn out to be less reliable than anticipated.
In the broader sense, this quote reflects a cynical view on the nature of promises and commitments. It implies that promises, whether made in personal relationships, professional settings, or political arenas, are often not kept. The sentiment behind the quote is one of skepticism about the sincerity and reliability of what people say they will do.
Historically, the idea of promises being unreliable has roots in many cultural and literary traditions. For instance, in Shakespearean plays, characters often grapple with the theme of broken promises, highlighting the complexities of trust and loyalty. The fragility of pie crusts in this context serves as a metaphorical device to express the ease with which commitments can be abandoned or compromised.
In everyday life, this quote serves as a cautionary reminder to temper expectations. While it’s important to strive for honesty and integrity in our commitments, it also suggests a pragmatic awareness that not all promises will be fulfilled. Understanding this can lead to more realistic expectations and a more measured approach to trust and reliability in relationships and agreements.
Overall, the quote encapsulates a deep-seated observation about human nature and the often tenuous nature of promises, using the simple, everyday imagery of a pie crust to communicate a broader, more philosophical idea.
Who said the quote?
The quote “Promises and pie-crust are made to be broken.” is often attributed to Jonathan Swift (Quotes). Jonathan Swift, the author of “Gulliver’s Travels,” was a satirist known for his sharp social commentary.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an impact-driven creator at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 life goals around the globe. Tal's journey and recent book, The Art of Fully Living, inspired him to found Elevate Society.
