The origin of the phrase gild the lily

Posted 2 years ago by Bear

So you know, the phrase gild the lily comes from a shortening of line in Shakespeare's King John,

Therefore, to be possess'd with double pomp,
To guard a title that was rich before,
To gild refined gold, to paint the lily,
To throw a perfume on the violet,
To smooth the ice, or add another hue
Unto the rainbow, or with taper-light
To seek the beauteous eye of heaven to garnish,
Is wasteful and ridiculous excess.

On a related note, the meal being cooked tonight is going to be unhealthy. Stay tuned for more info on this meal... if I survive.

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