Fancy restrained may be compared to a fountain, which plays highest by diminishing the aperture

Fancy restrained may be compared to a fountain, which plays highest by diminishing the aperture

Oliver Goldsmith, a renowned Irish writer and poet, was known for his keen observations of human nature and society. In his works, he often explored the complexities of human behavior and the ways in which people present themselves to the world. One of his most famous quotes, "Fancy restrained may be compared to a fountain, which plays highest by diminishing the aperture," speaks to the idea that sometimes, less is more when it comes to expressing oneself.

In this quote, Goldsmith is suggesting that when one exercises restraint in their actions and expressions, they are able to achieve a greater impact. Just as a fountain shoots water higher when the aperture is smaller, so too does the imagination soar when it is held back and controlled. This idea can be applied to various aspects of life, from art and literature to personal interactions and self-expression.

Goldsmith's own writing style reflects this concept of restrained fancy. His prose is elegant and refined, with a simplicity that belies its depth. He is able to convey complex emotions and ideas with just a few carefully chosen words, allowing the reader to fill in the gaps with their own imagination. This minimalist approach to writing allows for a more profound and lasting impact on the reader, as they are forced to engage with the text on a deeper level.