An
English proverb (
English proverbs) dating from the
19th century. It mostly likely coined by people in the business of
printing books and leaft lets with
movable type. (A strict sense of order being key to keeping a
tidy and
efficient type shop.) It may also be related to the
bible To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven (
Ecclesiastics 3:1) In any case it ask us to embrace the
beauty (or
tyranny) of
order.
There is a place for everything
In earth, or sky, or sea,
Where it may find its proper use,
And of advantage be
-- Augustine, the saint
In the
20th and
21st centuries it seems to be used mostly by
mothers who want their kids to
keep their rooms clean.
Sources:
www.thecleanteam.com/Rules-Clutter/9.cfm
www.utas.edu.au/docs/flonta/DP,2,1,96/PLACE_FOR_EVERYTHING.html