Czech Proverbs (Proverb Series)

Four qualities are said to be necessary for a saying to be called a proverb: brevity, sense, "salt," and popularity. But however you define it, the short, wise sayings of the Czech people are unlike the proverbs of any other culture. There is a sharp, biting wit in nearly every adage, but it is a humor that does more than entertain the listener. The wit, like the barb of an arrow, makes the proverb stick in the mind. Consider these: "Each stone you throw at your neighbor's roof will fall upon your own house." The Lord will help the navigator, but only if he rows." "Honor rests on the tip of your tongue."