Explore the meaning, history, and cultural significance of the phrase 'still waters run deep,' a proverb that highlights the profound nature of quiet individuals.
The phrase “still waters run deep” serves as a proverbial expression suggesting that individuals who are quiet or reserved may possess profound thoughts or emotions. It also implies that quietness can sometimes mask underlying danger or complexity.
The origins of “still waters run deep” can be traced back to the fifteenth century in English literature. The expression has its counterparts in ancient Roman culture, indicating its long-standing presence across various societies. The proverb is often linked to the Latin expression “altissima quaeque flumina minimo sono labi,” which translates to “the deepest rivers flow with the least sound.” This phrase was notably referenced in Thomas Fuller’s Gnomologia (1732), highlighting its enduring relevance in proverb collections.
Semantically, “still waters run deep” conveys dual connotations. On one hand, it celebrates the intellectual depth and emotional richness of quiet individuals, suggesting that silence may be indicative of profound contemplation. On the other hand, it warns of the potential danger or unpredictability that may lie beneath a calm exterior, akin to the silent yet powerful currents of deep waters.
In contemporary culture, the phrase is frequently employed in literature and discourse to describe characters or individuals who, despite their quiet demeanor, exhibit significant depth or complexity. For instance, Anthony Trollope’s novel He Knew He Was Right (1869) uses the phrase to illustrate a character’s cleverness hidden beneath a calm facade.
The phrase is adaptable across various contexts, from professional environments where it highlights the underestimated capabilities of quiet colleagues, to literary settings where it underscores the hidden complexities of characters. Historically, it has also been used to caution against underestimating seemingly benign situations.
The phrase “still waters run deep” maintains significant contemporary relevance, often invoked to appreciate or caution against the understated. Its durability is rated at ★★★★☆, indicating its continued pertinence in modern discourse.
“That’s what I call still water. She runs deep enough . . . So quiet, but so—clever.” - Anthony Trollope, He Knew He Was Right (1869)