Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'shoulder to the wheel, to put/set one’s,' a metaphor for determined effort and hard work.
To put or set one’s shoulder to the wheel is a metaphorical expression denoting the act of making a determined effort or working hard. It suggests a vigorous and sustained application of effort, akin to physically pushing a heavy, bogged-down cart.
The phrase “shoulder to the wheel” finds its origins in the early seventeenth century, with its earliest recorded use attributed to Robert Burton in The Anatomy of Melancholy (1621). Burton draws an analogy with Aesop’s fable, wherein a character, faced with a stuck cart, applies force by putting his shoulder to the wheel. Initially, the phrase specifically referred to the physical exertion required to move a cart. By the eighteenth century, its application broadened to encompass any form of strenuous labor or effort, as illustrated in Madame d’Arblay’s diary entry from June 1792: “We must all put our shoulders to the wheel.”
Semantically, the phrase embodies the concepts of persistence, resilience, and industriousness. It conveys a sense of urgency and necessity, often employed in contexts where collective or individual effort is required to overcome challenges. The imagery of pushing a wheel suggests a proactive and hands-on approach, emphasizing physicality and direct involvement.
In contemporary culture, the phrase is frequently invoked in motivational contexts, emphasizing teamwork and dedication. It appears in literature, motivational speeches, and business environments, reinforcing the value of hard work and perseverance. The phrase is often used to inspire action and galvanize groups toward a common goal.
In professional settings, the phrase often underscores the importance of teamwork and collective effort in achieving organizational goals. Socially, it may be used to encourage individuals to persevere through personal challenges. In literary contexts, it can symbolize the protagonist’s determination to overcome obstacles.
The phrase “shoulder to the wheel” remains relevant in modern discourse due to its evocative imagery and motivational undertones. Its durability is rated at ★★★★☆, reflecting its continued applicability in various contexts, from personal development to collaborative endeavors.
“Like him in Aesop . . . he whipt his horses withal, and put his shoulder to the wheel.” - Robert Burton, The Anatomy of Melancholy (1621)
“We must all put our shoulders to the wheel.” - Madame d’Arblay, Diary (June 1792)