“Hope is a good breakfast, but it is a bad supper.”
- 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
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Quote
“Hope is a good breakfast, but it is a bad supper.”
Explanation
In this quote, Francis Bacon uses hope as a metaphor to convey its role in different stages of a person’s efforts or endeavors. He suggests that hope is essential and uplifting at the beginning of an endeavor, providing the motivation and optimism needed to start something new. In the morning, or at the start of a task, hope is a source of energy and enthusiasm, helping to fuel progress. However, as the day progresses and things move toward completion, hope becomes less effective and might even be seen as naive or insufficient. At the end of a task, or during challenging times, action, realism, and completion become more important than mere hope. In this sense, hope is less useful as a final solution or as a way to finish what has been started.
Bacon’s view reflects his emphasis on the importance of practicality and empiricism—that action and effort are more significant than mere wishful thinking. In Bacon’s time, there was a growing understanding of the need for both hope and practical action in order to achieve success. Bacon’s metaphor suggests that while hope is important for inspiring action, it should not be relied upon as a final solution. He advocates for a balance between optimism and realistic action.
In modern times, this quote resonates with our understanding of goal setting and personal development. The idea that hope is an essential driver at the beginning of a journey is reflected in modern motivation theories, but the idea that it is less effective at the end aligns with contemporary thinking about achievement and follow-through. As we work toward long-term goals, hope can give way to action, perseverance, and realistic evaluation. Bacon’s insight serves as a reminder that hope is a starting point, but sustained effort and realistic planning are what lead to successful completion.
