please your eye and plague your heart - Definition & Meaning

used to warn that pursuing things that seem desirable or attractive on the surface, such as relationships or material possessions, may ultimately lead to disappointment or painused to warn that pursuing things that seem desirable or attractive on the surface, such as relationships or material possessions, may ultimately lead to disappointment or pain

‌The proverb "please your eye and plague your heart" is attributed to English politician and writer William Cobbett. It suggests that people should be careful not to be swayed by superficial attractions, as what looks good on the outside may cause inner conflict or unhappiness. This proverb serves as a reminder that desires and attractions, whether material or emotional, should be carefully considered, as they may not bring lasting satisfaction and could cause more harm than good in the long run.‌The proverb "please your eye and plague your heart" is attributed to English politician and writer William Cobbett. It suggests that people should be careful not to be swayed by superficial attractions, as what looks good on the outside may cause inner conflict or unhappiness. This proverb serves as a reminder that desires and attractions, whether material or emotional, should be carefully considered, as they may not bring lasting satisfaction and could cause more harm than good in the long run.

Examples