Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'a poor thing but mine own,' a misquotation from Shakespeare's 'As You Like It,' and its enduring role as a cliché.
The phrase “a poor thing but mine own” signifies a sense of ownership and affection towards something that may be considered of little value or quality. It expresses a personal attachment and pride in possession, despite the item’s perceived deficiencies.
The phrase is a misquotation of Touchstone’s description of Audrey in William Shakespeare’s As You Like It (Act 5, Scene 4), where he states, “An ill-favour’d thing, sir, but mine own.” This line reflects Touchstone’s acknowledgment of Audrey’s lack of conventional attractiveness, yet he claims her as his own with a sense of pride. The phrase evolved into a cliché by the mid-nineteenth century, as it encapsulated a universal sentiment of personal attachment to one’s possessions, regardless of their flaws.
Semantically, the phrase conveys a duality of meaning: acknowledgment of an object’s or person’s shortcomings, coupled with a deep-seated sense of ownership and affection. It often implies a defensive or apologetic tone, as the speaker justifies their attachment to something others might deem unworthy.
In contemporary culture, the phrase is employed to express personal pride in ownership, often in a self-deprecating manner. It appears in literature and colloquial discourse, reflecting a broader human tendency to cherish personal belongings or relationships despite their imperfections. The phrase resonates with audiences due to its relatable theme of valuing personal connections over material worth.
In professional settings, the phrase might be used to express ownership of a project or idea that, while not perfect, holds personal significance. In social contexts, it often relates to personal relationships or possessions. Literary uses highlight character traits such as humility, self-awareness, and pride in personal achievements or connections.
The phrase maintains contemporary relevance due to its universal theme of valuing personal attachments over material worth. Its durability is rated at ★★★★☆, as it continues to be used in both literary and everyday contexts, resonating with audiences who appreciate its nuanced expression of ownership and affection.
“An ill-favour’d thing, sir, but mine own.” - William Shakespeare, As You Like It