To take advantage of favorable conditions or opportunities while they last. To act promptly when circumstances are ideal for achieving success.
This agricultural metaphor dates to the 16th century and reflects the practical reality of farming - hay must be cut and dried during good weather, as rain can ruin the crop. John Heywood recorded it in his 1546 collection of proverbs, and it was already considered an old saying then.
This phrase perfectly captures pre-industrial life's dependence on weather and seasons. Farmers literally had narrow windows to complete crucial tasks, making timing everything. Modern research on circadian rhythms and productivity cycles suggests we still have personal 'sunshine' periods when we're most effective at different tasks.
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