We give advice by the bucket, but take it by the grain

We give advice by the bucket, but take it by the grain

Tom Stoppard, the renowned playwright and screenwriter, is known for his witty and thought-provoking works that often explore complex themes and ideas. One of the recurring themes in Stoppard's work is the concept of giving advice versus taking it, and how people often find it easier to dispense wisdom to others than to follow it themselves.

The phrase "We give advice by the bucket, but take it by the grain" perfectly encapsulates this idea. It suggests that people are quick to offer advice and guidance to others, often in large quantities (the bucket), but when it comes to applying that same advice to their own lives, they only take a small amount (the grain). This discrepancy between giving and taking advice highlights the inherent hypocrisy and self-delusion that can be found in human behavior.