The quote ‘Fish and visitors stink after three days’ by Benjamin Franklin highlights the idea that prolonged exposure to certain situations or people can lead to discomfort or annoyance. In essence, it suggests that while the initial presence of a visitor (or a fresh catch of fish) can be pleasant, over time, it may become unwelcome.
This analogy serves as a reminder of the importance of boundaries and the need for moderation in social interactions. Just as fish can spoil and generate unpleasant odors if not used quickly, visitors, if they overstay their welcome, can begin to irritate the host. Franklin’s wisdom here reflects a humorous yet practical observation about human relationships—it’s perfectly fine to enjoy someone’s company, but there comes a point when it’s wise to maintain a balance that keeps relationships healthy.