“Fame is like a river, that beareth up things light and swollen, and drowns things weighty and solid.”
- January 22, 1561 – April 9, 1626
- Born in England
- Philosopher, theologian, jurist, politician, aristocrat
- Proposed the “inductive method” that laid the foundations of modern science, and influenced later generations as the founder of British empiricism
Quote
“Fame is like a river, that beareth up things light and swollen, and drowns things weighty and solid.”
Explanation
In this quote, Francis Bacon compares fame to a river, suggesting that fame tends to favor things that are superficial, shallow, or easily inflated, while it tends to drown or ignore things that are deep, substantial, and meaningful. He implies that fame often highlights temporary successes or attention-grabbing traits, while deeper, more lasting qualities—such as wisdom, integrity, or true achievement—may not receive the recognition they deserve. The metaphor of the river suggests that fame is often driven by surface-level impressions, while the true weight or value of a person or thing may remain hidden beneath the surface.
Bacon’s perspective reflects his recognition of the ephemeral and transitory nature of public recognition during the Renaissance, when fame was often associated with outward appearances or public acclaim, rather than with sustained virtue or real accomplishment. In Bacon’s time, fame could be easily manipulated or misrepresented, and he was keenly aware that those who were superficially popular or widely celebrated might not necessarily possess the qualities that truly defined their worth.
In modern times, this quote resonates with ongoing discussions about the nature of celebrity culture and publicity. In the age of social media and instant gratification, fame can often be built on shallow or fleeting qualities, such as appearances, controversy, or viral moments, while substantial achievements or meaningful contributions can be overlooked or undervalued. For example, individuals who achieve internet fame or celebrity status through trivial or short-lived actions often receive more attention than those whose work in science, humanitarian efforts, or art may have a deeper and more lasting impact. Bacon’s quote serves as a reminder that true value often goes unnoticed in the rush for fame, and that lasting success and virtue are not always rewarded in the same way as more temporary or sensational accomplishments.
