“This is certain, that a man that studieth revenge keeps his wounds green, which otherwise would heal and do well.”
- 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
“This is certain, that a man that studieth revenge keeps his wounds green, which otherwise would heal and do well.”
Explanation
In this quote, Francis Bacon reflects on the destructive nature of revenge. He suggests that by focusing on seeking revenge, a person keeps their emotional wounds open—continuing to relive the pain or injustice they have experienced. Rather than allowing these wounds to heal naturally over time, the obsession with revenge ensures they remain fresh and unresolved, preventing emotional recovery. Bacon implies that forgiveness and letting go of the desire for vengeance allow one to heal, while revenge perpetuates suffering. This quote speaks to the idea that holding onto anger or seeking retaliation only harms the person seeking it, while moving forward with a focus on healing brings true peace.
Bacon’s perspective aligns with Renaissance ideas of personal virtue and self-mastery, where emotional control and forgiveness were seen as indicators of strength and wisdom. During the Renaissance, there was a growing emphasis on the power of reason over emotion, and Bacon’s philosophy emphasized the need to rise above personal grievances for the sake of personal growth and social harmony.
In modern times, this quote resonates with contemporary psychological and ethical teachings. Research in psychology has shown that holding onto grudges and seeking revenge can lead to long-term emotional harm, contributing to stress, anxiety, and resentment. Conversely, practices such as forgiveness and letting go of past wrongs have been shown to promote mental health and well-being. Bacon’s insight encourages us to recognize that while the desire for revenge may feel justified, it ultimately only prolongs the pain and suffering, preventing us from moving toward true emotional healing.
