Meaning: The quote "Avarice, the sphincter of the heart" is a thought-provoking statement made by Matthew Green, an 18th-century English poet. This quote is often interpreted as a metaphor for the negative impact of greed and excessive desire for wealth on one's character and emotions. In this context, "avarice" refers to extreme greed and the insatiable desire for material possessions, while "sphincter of the heart" symbolizes the constriction or closure of the emotional and compassionate aspects of a person's inner being.

Matthew Green, the poet credited with this quote, was born in 1696 and is best known for his satirical poem "The Spleen." Green's works often explore human nature, societal behavior, and the impact of materialism on individuals and society. In the context of the quote "Avarice, the sphincter of the heart," Green's words reflect a critical perspective on the consequences of excessive greed and the emotional toll it takes on individuals.

The use of the word "sphincter" in this quote is particularly significant. A sphincter is a circular muscle that regulates the passage of substances in the body, such as the muscles that control the opening and closing of the digestive orifices. In the context of the heart, the metaphor suggests that avarice acts as a constricting force, limiting the natural flow of emotions and compassion. This imagery implies that excessive greed can lead to emotional constriction and a closing off of one's capacity for empathy and connection with others.

The heart, as a symbol of emotion and empathy, is often associated with compassion and generosity. By likening avarice to a sphincter of the heart, Green suggests that greed has the power to close off these positive emotions, causing a person to become emotionally restricted and self-centered. This interpretation aligns with the broader themes of Green's work, which often critiques the societal and moral implications of human behavior.

Furthermore, the quote "Avarice, the sphincter of the heart" can be seen as a cautionary reflection on the corrupting influence of materialism. In a society driven by consumerism and the pursuit of wealth, Green's words serve as a reminder of the potential damage that excessive greed can inflict on individuals and their capacity for genuine human connection. The metaphorical imagery of the heart's sphincter being closed off by avarice paints a vivid picture of the emotional and moral consequences of prioritizing material gain above all else.

In conclusion, Matthew Green's quote "Avarice, the sphincter of the heart" offers a powerful commentary on the destructive nature of greed and materialism. Through this metaphor, Green conveys the idea that excessive desire for wealth can constrict the emotional and compassionate aspects of a person's inner being, leading to a diminished capacity for empathy and connection with others. This quote continues to resonate as a timeless reminder of the detrimental effects of prioritizing material gain over emotional and moral well-being.