An open foe may prove a curse, but a pretended friend is worse

An open foe may prove a curse, but a pretended friend is worse

John Gay, the renowned English poet and playwright, is perhaps best known for his satirical works that often critiqued the social and political landscape of his time. One of his most famous quotes, "An open foe may prove a curse, but a pretended friend is worse," encapsulates the theme of betrayal and deceit that is prevalent in many of his works.