🐰 “Running with the Hare and Holding with the Hound” 🐶
Meaning: To try and stay in favor with two opponents; to take both sides at the same time.
Origin: This expression dates from the fifteenth century and appeared in Heywood’s 1546 proverb collection. John Lyly used it in Euphues (1580): “Whatsoeuer I speake to men, the same also I speake to women, I meane not to run with the Hare and holde with the Hounde.”
Modern Usage: It describes someone who is attempting to appease conflicting interests, often resulting in questionable loyalty or a tendency to hedge bets.
Similar Terms and Expressions
- Sitting on the fence: To remain neutral or undecided.
- Playing both ends against the middle: To manipulate two opposing sides.
- Double-dealing: Being deceitful by pretending to support both sides.
Related Sayings and Proverbs
- Between a rock and a hard place: Facing two equally difficult alternatives.
- Burning the candle at both ends: To overextend oneself.
- Having one’s cake and eating it too: Wanting mutually exclusive things.
Humorous Quotes 📝
“Trying to be both hunter and hunted is a surefire way to star in the next reality TV show: ‘Who Wants to Lose Their Friends?’”
–Brad Bystander, Comedic Observer
Literature, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
- Literature: Explore deceptive characters balancing conflicting interests in Euphues by John Lyly.
- Songs: “Stuck in the Middle with You” by Stealers Wheel embodies indecision and trying to navigate differing pressures.
- Poetry: The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost reflects decision-making and the impact of choosing sides.
- Movies: The Departed showcases characters balancing loyalty and betrayal on both sides of the law.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell 🌟
“May your path be clear, your choices be wise, and may you never find yourself running with the hare while holding with the hound. For in the end, those who split their loyalties ultimately run in circles.”
