"Many a man who thinks to found a home discovers that he has merely opened a tavern for his friends"

This quote by Norman Douglas is a reminder that although we may have the best intents when it comes to developing a house, it can be difficult to achieve. It recommends that often, rather of developing a home, we end up developing a place for our buddies to gather and mingle. This can be seen as a metaphor for how our lives can take unanticipated turns, and how our strategies can be thwarted. It likewise works as a cautioning to be conscious of our intents and to be familiar with the consequences of our actions. Ultimately, this quote is a suggestion that although we may have the very best of intentions, it is essential to be conscious of the results of our actions.