Folly by Thiruvalluvar (2000)
The work explores the concept of folly, defining it as the rejection of beneficial actions in favor of harmful ones. It emphasizes that the gravest folly is the inclination towards inappropriate behavior. A fool is characterized by neglect of responsibilities, rudeness, and a lack of shame, showing no appreciation for virtuous conduct. The text highlights the irony of a learned individual who, despite possessing knowledge, remains enslaved by his desires, rendering him the greatest fool. It suggests that a fool sows the seeds of future suffering through his actions. When undertaking significant ventures, a fool not only jeopardizes the endeavor but also invites personal bondage. Wealth acquired by a fool benefits only outsiders, leaving his family in want. His behavior upon gaining value is likened to that of a drunken madman, indicating a lack of composure and wisdom. The companionship of fools is portrayed as untroubling, as parting from them brings no sorrow. The presence of a fool among the wise is compared to an unclean foot on a couch, signifying a disruptive and unwelcome intrusion. Overall, the work serves as a cautionary reflection on the nature of folly, urging individuals to recognize and avoid foolish behavior to lead a more virtuous and fulfilling life.
By Thiruvalluvar · First published 2000 · Genre: Philosophical, Didactic, Moral · 249 words
First lines
Dost thou want to know what folly is? It is the throwing away of that which is profitable and the holding fast to that which is hurtful.
The chiefest among all kinds of folly is the folly of inclining the heart towards conduct that is unbecoming to oneself.
The fool is neglectful of duties and rude of speech, and callous to all sense of shame: and he will cherish nothing that is good.
There is a man that is learned and subtle and a teacher of others, and yet continueth to be the slave of his passions himself: there is no greater fool than he.
What this Textopian page supports
Folly is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thiruvalluvar, dated 2000 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Thiruvalluvar
- Date: 2000 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophical, Didactic, Moral, Poetry, Sociological
- Length: 249 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Folly by Thiruvalluvar
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Folly?
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- Where does Philosophical first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Friendship That Injureth by Thiruvalluvar
- Refraining From Slander by Thiruvalluvar
- Listening To The Instruction Of The Wise by Thiruvalluvar
- Glory by Thiruvalluvar
- Abstaining From Drink by Thiruvalluvar
- Abstaining From Fraud by Thiruvalluvar
Genres
- Philosophical — The text explores deep themes of folly, wisdom, and the nature of human conduct.
- Didactic — The work serves to instruct readers on the consequences of folly and the importance of virtuous behavior.
- Moral — It emphasizes moral lessons regarding the nature of foolishness and its impact on oneself and others.
- Poetry — The writing style employs poetic elements, reflecting the lyrical nature of Thiruvalluvar's work.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Tamil Literature · Ethics · Morality · Wisdom · Folly · Human Nature · Social Commentary · Cultural Significance · Ancient Texts · Indian Classics