In everyday terms, this quote reflects a situation where someone invested money into purchasing whiskey rather than using that same amount of money on provisions or supplies. The speaker discovered that the benefits derived from drinking and selling whiskey were greater than what they would have gained had they used their funds to buy regular goods. Essentially, it means they received more value out of the whiskey investment compared to other possible uses for the money.
On a deeper level, this quote speaks about the strategic importance of recognizing opportunities where one can maximize returns through unconventional methods or investments that might seem risky but offer significant rewards. It also touches on the idea that perceived value is subjective and can be shaped by how an individual chooses to utilize resources. For instance, in Buffalo Bill's context, there was a clear benefit derived from the social and commercial aspects of whiskey, such as building community ties and generating income through sales, which were not immediately apparent or comparable to the straightforward benefits of buying provisions.
This quote is attributed to William Frederick Cody, better known by his stage name "Buffalo Bill," an American scout, showman, and entrepreneur who lived from 1846 to 1917. Buffalo Bill was famous for his Wild West shows that brought a romanticized version of the American frontier to audiences across America and Europe. His life experiences on the frontier influenced many aspects of his business ventures, including this insight into unconventional investments like whiskey, which could offer unexpected benefits beyond their immediate value.
