"Les invités comme le poisson commencent à sentir après trois jours"

You know when you have guests over and everything is going great? Everyone's laughing, sharing stories, and it feels like one big happy family. But then, a few days pass and things... start to change. The core idea here is simple: after a while, even the best guests can overstay their welcome. It's a funny way of saying that just like fish, which get pretty funky after a few days, guests too can lose their charm if they hang around for too long.

Historically, this phrase has been attributed to Benjamin Franklin, a guy known for his wisdom and wit. Imagine Franklin in the 1700s, dealing with guests who possibly took advantage of his hospitality. He probably experienced firsthand how great it feels when friends visit, but also how exhausting it can be when they don't leave. It’s like that initially wonderful scent of freshly cooked fish that turns rancid after sitting out too long.

Let’s bring this to life with a real-life example. Picture this: You invite your college buddy over for a weekend. You’re excited and have planned everything—Friday night’s about catching up over pizza and beer, Saturday’s for a day trip, and Sunday’s for a lazy brunch. It’s all good. But then Sunday comes and goes, and your friend is still there Monday morning. You’ve got work, they’ve got a lot of free time, and suddenly you’re feeling the strain. Your space isn’t yours anymore. They've started to feel more like a roommate than a guest. The charm has worn off—things are beginning to "smell".

So, what’s the takeaway here? If you’re hosting, it’s totally okay to set boundaries. You can let your guests know upfront how long you’re available. Something like, "I’d love to have you this weekend! I’ve got work on Monday, so I'll need to get back to my routine then." It’s all about communication—keeping things clear and friendly.

Now, flip the scenario. Imagine you’re the guest. You’re visiting a friend in another city. The first couple of days are awesome. But then you notice your friend starting to seem a little less enthusiastic. Maybe they're checking their watch more often or slipping off to their room. That’s your cue. Thank them for their hospitality and give them back their space. It’s not about cutting your fun short—it’s about being considerate and maintaining a good relationship.

In a way, it’s like the golden rule of visiting: treat your stay like you’d want someone to treat theirs in your home. Everyone loves the idea of guests, but nobody wants to feel like their home’s been taken over. It’s about balance and respect.

So, next time you’re hosting or visiting, remember this quirky little piece of wisdom. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes less really is more, and knowing when to leave can be the key to being invited back. And hey, if you’re ever unsure, just think about that fish!