"Prudence is a rich, ugly, old maid courted by incapacity"

This quote by William Blake is a metaphor for the significance of vigilance in life. Vigilance is a metaphor for wisdom and foresight, and is being compared to an old house maid. This contrast implies that prudence is something that is often neglected and undervalued. The expression "courted by inability" suggests that those who do not have prudence are often the ones who are most brought in to it. This suggests that those who do not have vigilance are typically the ones who require it one of the most. The phrase "abundant, ugly" implies that prudence is something that is important, but not constantly appealing. This recommends that vigilance is something that is often overlooked and undervalued, but is still incredibly essential. In conclusion, this quote is a suggestion that vigilance is an indispensable property in life, and must not be neglected or considered given.