🎭 Definition:
Killing the Goose That Lays the Golden Eggs
To destroy a source of wealth through greed, neglect, or foolish actions. This phrase originates from Aesop’s fable in which a farmer kills his valuable goose in a misguided attempt to obtain all its golden eggs at once, only to lose his source of wealth entirely.
🔍 Synonyms:
- Biting the hand that feeds you
- Penny wise, pound foolish
- Sabotaging success
📚 Similar Expressions:
- Don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched.
- Making a mountain out of a molehill.
- Cutting off one’s nose to spite one’s face.
📖 Proverbs:
- “He who grasps at too much holds nothing.”
- “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” (English Proverb)
- “If you chase two rabbits, you won’t catch either one.” (Russian Proverb)
🎉 Entertaining Examples:
Imagine landing your dream job but quitting because you’re convinced a billion-dollar lottery win is just around the corner. Instead of golden eggs, you’re left with expired lottery tickets and a scolding from reality.
✍️ Witty Quote:
“Why have one golden egg a day when you can mess things up magnificently and have none at all?” - The Reckless Farmer
🏆 Literature, Books, & Quotes:
- Treasury of Aesop’s Fables - Aesop
- Walden by Henry David Thoreau, specifically Autumn (1860)
- The Book of Proverbs and Wisdom: Lessons for Life – Ken B. Williams
🎶 Songs:
- “Money” by Pink Floyd – a song that captures the obsession and consequence of greed.
🍿 Movies:
- Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory – think about Veruca Salt and the ill-fated golden goose.
🌟 Inspirational Farewell:
Remember, the patience to cultivate and appreciate what you have often yields the richest rewards. Even in timeless wisdom lies the key to contemporary success.
Farewell, fellow word adventurers, and may your understanding of such platitudes bring clarity and humor to your life.
