Follow pleasure, and then will pleasure flee, flee pleasure, and pleasure will follow thee

Follow pleasure, and then will pleasure flee, flee pleasure, and pleasure will follow thee

John Heywood was a prominent English playwright and poet during the Tudor period, known for his witty epigrams and plays. One of his most famous quotes is “Follow pleasure, and then will pleasure flee, flee pleasure, and pleasure will follow thee.” This quote encapsulates Heywood’s belief in the fleeting nature of pleasure and the importance of moderation in seeking it.

Heywood’s quote suggests that pursuing pleasure too eagerly or recklessly will ultimately lead to its disappearance. This idea is rooted in the concept of hedonism, which emphasizes the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain as the ultimate goals in life. However, Heywood warns that indulging in pleasure without restraint can actually diminish its enjoyment and lead to its eventual loss.

In the context of Heywood’s time, this quote may have been a commentary on the excesses of the Tudor court and society. The court of Henry VIII was known for its lavish banquets, extravagant entertainments, and indulgent lifestyles. Heywood may have been cautioning against the dangers of excess and the potential consequences of pursuing pleasure at all costs.

Heywood’s quote also reflects a broader philosophical idea about the nature of pleasure and happiness. The pursuit of pleasure for its own sake can be a shallow and ultimately unsatisfying endeavor. True happiness, Heywood suggests, comes from a more balanced approach to life, where pleasure is enjoyed in moderation and in harmony with other aspects of one’s existence.