Meaning: Ellen Swallow Richards, the author of the quote "If you keep your feathers well oiled the water of criticism will run off as from a duck's back," was a prominent figure in the field of environmental and social reform in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As the first woman admitted to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a pioneer in the field of home economics, Richards was a strong advocate for women's education and the application of scientific principles to domestic tasks. Her quote reflects her resilience in the face of criticism and her belief in the importance of maintaining a strong and well-prepared exterior in order to deflect negativity and adversity.

At its core, this quote speaks to the idea of resilience and the ability to withstand criticism and adversity. The metaphor of keeping feathers well oiled, much like a duck does to repel water, suggests the importance of preparation and maintenance in order to deflect negativity. By likening criticism to water running off a duck's back, Richards emphasizes the importance of developing a strong and resilient mindset in the face of challenges.

Richards' quote can be interpreted as a call to action for individuals to cultivate their mental and emotional resilience. In the face of criticism, it is essential to have a well-oiled exterior, representing a strong and prepared mindset that allows one to deflect negativity and adversity. This metaphorical "oiling" of one's feathers can be achieved through self-care, self-confidence, and a strong sense of self-worth. By maintaining these qualities, individuals can better withstand the impact of criticism and negativity, allowing it to "run off" without causing lasting harm.

Furthermore, the use of the duck as a metaphor is significant. Ducks are known for their waterproof feathers, which allow them to stay dry and buoyant even in the midst of water. By invoking this image, Richards emphasizes the importance of developing a similar resilience to criticism and adversity. The duck's ability to repel water serves as a powerful symbol for the strength and resilience that individuals can cultivate in the face of challenges.

In a broader context, Richards' quote can be applied to various aspects of life, including professional, personal, and social spheres. In the professional realm, individuals often face criticism and feedback, which can be challenging to navigate. By embracing the metaphor of the well-oiled feathers, individuals can approach criticism with a sense of preparedness and resilience, allowing them to maintain their confidence and composure in the face of adversity.

On a personal level, the quote speaks to the importance of self-care and self-confidence. By maintaining a strong and well-prepared mindset, individuals can better navigate the ups and downs of life, deflecting negativity and criticism without allowing it to erode their sense of self-worth. This resilience is essential for maintaining mental and emotional well-being in the face of adversity.

In the social sphere, Richards' quote can be applied to broader societal challenges, such as discrimination, prejudice, and adversity. By cultivating a strong and resilient mindset, individuals and communities can better withstand the impact of negativity and criticism, ultimately working towards positive social change.

In conclusion, Ellen Swallow Richards' quote "If you keep your feathers well oiled the water of criticism will run off as from a duck's back" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. By maintaining a strong and well-prepared exterior, individuals can better withstand criticism and negativity, allowing them to navigate life's challenges with confidence and composure. This metaphorical "oiling" of one's feathers represents a call to action for individuals to cultivate their mental and emotional resilience, ultimately leading to greater well-being and success in all aspects of life.