Franklin distinguishes between discussing ideas and making a final decision. Conversation over wine may be relaxed and open, allowing people to explore possibilities freely, but alcohol can also impair judgement. The advice is therefore to postpone any firm resolution until afterwards, when the matter can be reconsidered with a clear and sober mind.

The saying does not suggest that drinking is necessary for useful discussion. Its central contrast is between informal deliberation and responsible commitment. Ideas generated under excitement, emotion or intoxication may still have value, but they should be tested again under calmer conditions before action follows. Franklin’s broader lesson is that important decisions benefit from a second stage of reflection, especially when the circumstances in which an idea arose may have affected judgement.