Have more than thou showest,
Speak less than thou knowest,
Lend less than thou owest.
– William Shakespeare
King Lear, Act 1, Scene 4. In singing this ditty full of life wisdom about showing good judgment and sense in dealing with others, the Fool is attempting to advise Lear. Lear’s power and stature are diminishing, having given up his kingdom to his two daughters and exposing himself to their self-interest and evil ways. The Fool, who ironically is more wise than foolish, tells Lear to be wary in the social world and not put all his cards out there on the table, speak wisely and less, and don’t give away so many of your possessions that he is left poor.