Question

What is the meaning of this aphorism from Paines the american crisis
what we obtain too cheap we esteem too lightly
wehn people sacrifice too much for a victory they do not appreciate the results
if we want to win a war we have to sacrifice all that we consider inexpensive
if we are not determined enough our enemies will not respect us

Answer 1

The meaning of this aphorism from Paine's "The American Crisis" is that when something is obtained too easily or at a low cost, it is often not valued or appreciated. In the context of the American Revolution, Paine is emphasizing the importance of making sacrifices and being determined in order to win the war. If the victory is achieved without much effort or sacrifice, it will not be respected by the enemies or fully appreciated by the people. Therefore, Paine suggests that in order to achieve true success, one must be willing to give up everything that is considered inexpensive or easy.