sow (n.)

sow (v.)

But how can he expect that others should

Build for him, sow for him, and at his call

Love him, who for himself will take no heed at all?

William Wordsworth (1770-1850): Resolution and Independence. Stanza 6.

He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap.

Old Testament: Ecclesiastes xi. 4.

The still sowe eats up all the draffe.

John Heywood (Circa 1565): Proverbes. Part i. Chap. x.

In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand.

Old Testament: Ecclesiastes xi. 6.

The wrong sow by th' eare.

John Heywood (Circa 1565): Proverbes. Part ii. Chap. ix.

You are taking the wrong sow by the ear.

Miguel De Cervantes (1547-1616): Don Quixote. Part i. Book iii. Chap. iv.

As the ancients

Say wisely, have a care o' th' main chance,

And look before you ere you leap;

For as you sow, ye are like to reap.

Samuel Butler (1600-1680): Hudibras. Part ii. Canto ii. Line 501.