I like metaphors. I respect a good “run with a metaphor” post. But I feel like if you have to explain the metaphor this much during the post it’s not worth it
The article goes to lengths to explain the saying, without ever mentioning its source... and so I assume the author also doesn't realize the common saying is a misquote. The actual quote makes a LOT more sense:
Shakespeare's King John, Act II (SALISBURY):
...To gild refined gold, to paint the lily,
...Is wasteful and ridiculous excess.
Gild all the lilies you want; artificial flowers have resale value.