Men's evil manners live in brass; their virtues we write in water

Definitions

• discourage someone
  Advise against engaging in a particular activity or task, cautioning that it will not result in any positive outcome or benefit

• recognition of negativity
  Highlighting the tendency for negative actions to be remembered more prominently than positive actions

Examples of Men's evil manners live in brass; their virtues we write in water

• Despite his impressive job title and expensive car, Tom's true character is revealed to be cruel and selfish. In essence, his negative qualities endure like metal sculptures, while his positive traits are as fleeting as waterwritten messages that quickly fade away.

  This idiom, "Men's evil manners live in brass; their virtues we write in water," is an old proverb that highlights the fact that true evil persists, while good qualities are often fleeting and easily forgotten. The term "brass" references the durability and lasting impression that negative traits leave, while "water" symbolizes the fleeting and transitory nature of positive traits. The phrase encourages individuals to focus on developing good character and virtues that will remain steadfast, rather than prioritizing superficial or material aspects of one's persona.

• The corrupt politician's actions were ingrained in his character, like men's evil manners that live in brass. His morality, on the other hand, was as fleeting as the ink used to record virtuous deeds, which we often write in water.

  "Men's evil manners live in brass" is a figurative expression that means that negative qualities or habits that one possesses are deeply ingrained and difficult to change. It is similar to how brass, a durable material, can hold a shape over time. The comparison is made between the challenging nature of altering unscrupulous behaviors and the enduring properties of brass.In contrast, "their virtues we write in water" implies that good deeds and character traits can be easily forgotten or washed away, much like how water can erase writings on a surface. The phrase emphasizes the transient nature of positive attributes, and how external factors or time can degrade them.In the example above, the politician's corrupt activities were depicted as being brutally etched in his character, much like brass's resistance to erosion. However, his merits were portrayed as fragile and perishable, similar to how water's fluidity can dissipate written words.

Conclusion

The idiom "Men's evil manners live in brass; their virtues we write in water" is used to discourage someone from engaging in a particular activity or task by cautioning that it will not result in any positive outcome. It is also used to recognize the tendency for negative actions to be remembered more prominently than positive actions.

This idiom serves as a reminder to focus on the positive qualities and actions of individuals, rather than dwelling on their negative behaviors. It can be used to advise against certain actions and to encourage a more positive and forgiving outlook on human nature.

Origin of "Men's evil manners live in brass; their virtues we write in water"

The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the writings of the English poet and playwright William Shakespeare. It is believed to have been first used in his play "Henry VIII." The idiom reflects the idea that people's negative actions are often remembered more vividly than their positive ones, much like how evil manners are said to "live in brass," while virtues are "written in water." This metaphorical expression has since become a part of the English language, used to caution against negative behaviors and to emphasize the importance of recognizing and acknowledging the positive qualities of others.