there is reason in the roasting of eggs

English

Etymology

Attested since 17th century, according to the Oxford Books of Proverbs.

Proverb

there is reason in the roasting of eggs

1. There is a reason behind even the most odd and seemingly unnecessary action.
   • 1840, Edgar Allan Poe, The Philosophy of Furniture:

     There is reason, it is said, in the roasting of eggs, and there is philosophy even in furniture—a philosophy nevertheless which seems to be more imperfectly understood by Americans than by any civilized nation upon the face of the earth.