Friendship is like money, easier made than kept.

Samuel Butler quote explanation

This quote draws a comparison between friendship and money, suggesting that while it may be relatively easy to establish or form friendships, maintaining and preserving them over time can be more challenging. Let’s break down the quote:

1. “Friendship is like money”: This metaphor sets up the comparison, equating friendship with money. Both friendship and money are valuable assets in life, and the quote implies that they share certain characteristics or challenges.
2. “easier made than kept”: This part of the quote expresses the main idea. It suggests that the process of making or forming friendships is comparatively easier than the task of keeping and sustaining those friendships. The word “kept” implies the effort required to maintain and nurture relationships over the long term.

In essence, the quote emphasizes the potential fragility of friendships. While it might be relatively simple to initiate or establish connections with others, maintaining the quality and strength of those relationships requires ongoing effort, communication, and mutual understanding. The comparison to money underscores the idea that, like financial wealth, the true value of friendships is revealed not just in their creation but in their endurance and resilience over time. It serves as a reminder to invest time and care in nurturing and preserving the bonds of friendship.