🚩 Tarred with the Same Brush 🚩
Definition: Characterized by the same faults or bad qualities.
Origin: This expression likely stems from the practice of sheepherding, where treating a sheep’s sores with a brush dipped in tar was common. Since presumably all the sheep in one flock would be treated this way, the term was extended metaphorically to humans sharing similar qualities. The figurative use dates back to the early nineteenth century. Notably, Sir Walter Scott used it in several novels. Yet, a less likely theory suggests it originated from sailors working with tar brushes for caulking, often getting tar on one another due to cramped quarters.
Synonyms & Related Expressions:
- “Cut from the same cloth”—Implying identical nature or qualities.
- “Birds of a feather (flock together)"—People who are similar tend to associate with each other.
- “Like peas in a pod”—Having very few, if any, discernible differences.
Antonyms:
- “Like chalk and cheese”—Completely different from one another.
- “Worlds apart”—Vastly different in character or qualities.
- “Poles apart”—Lacking any similarity whatsoever.
Humorous Quotes:
- “Being tarred with the same brush isn’t so bad. Just look at cookies out of the same batch—each one deliciously different!” - Food for Thought.
Interesting References:
- Sir Walter Scott’s novels often depicted this phrase, adding richness to historic literary landscapes.
- John Ciardi speculated a nautical origin suggesting sailors inadvertently soiling one another with tar during ship maintenance.
Proverbs:
- “A bad workman blames his tools”—Highlighting how individuals may seek external excuses for internal faults.
- “Misery loves company.”—Often troubles attract more similar troubles.
Suggested Literature:
- “Ivanhoe” by Sir Walter Scott—One of the many works of literature where this idiom finds its mention.
- “The Old Man and the Sea” by Ernest Hemingway—A novel that delves into the nuanced imperfections of the human spirit.
- “Of Mice and Men” by John Steinbeck—Another literary illustration of shared struggles and qualities.
Movies:
- “The Shawshank Redemption”—A film depicting characters collectively dealing with flawed justice systems.
- “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”—Examining the shared plights and spirits within a mental institution.
Songs:
- “We’re All in This Together” from High School Musical - Celebrates unity in diversity.
- “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers – Symbolizing support and shared burdens.
Poetry:
- “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost—Encapsulates unique choices leading to distinct journeys and destinations.
- “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley—Reflecting on inner strength despite adverse circumstances and common struggles.
Final Thought: As we paint our lives with various brushstrokes, may we recognize the beauty in diversity despite and maybe because of our shared tars and swirls. Stay intricate and imperfectly perfect!
By Lexi Lingo - 2023
