This quote uses the metaphor of meals throughout the day to illustrate the progression and consequences of pride.

“Pride breakfasted with plenty” suggests that pride often starts when one is in a position of abundance or success. This could be wealth, talent, beauty, or any other advantage. In the morning of one’s journey, when everything is going well, pride seems like a satisfying and justified meal.

“Dined with poverty” implies that pride, if left unchecked, can lead to downfall. This could be because pride makes one overconfident, leading to reckless decisions, or because it pushes away other people, leading to isolation. The mid-day meal, which should have been fulfilling, is instead meager and unsatisfactory.

“Supped with infamy” suggests that the ultimate outcome of pride is disgrace or loss of reputation. Supper, the last meal of the day, represents the end of one’s journey. If that journey was guided by pride, it may well end in infamy, with one’s actions being remembered negatively.

In today’s world, this quote can serve as a cautionary note against letting success get to our heads. Whether in business, politics, or personal life, history is full of examples of people who let their early successes make them arrogant, leading to their downfall.

As for personal development, it reminds us to stay humble and grounded, no matter how successful we become. Success is not just about achieving goals, but also about maintaining relationships, making wise decisions, and preserving one’s reputation. By keeping our pride in check, we can prevent it from leading us to poverty and infamy.