He makes no friend who never made a foe.

The line suggests that genuine friendship and meaningful influence often entail taking positions that some people will oppose. A person who never makes an enemy may be so cautious, compliant, or inconsequential that they never risk disagreement on matters of principle. Conversely, making “foes” here does not imply seeking conflict for its own sake, but acknowledges that integrity, leadership, and strong convictions can provoke hostility even as they attract loyal allies. The aphorism frames social friction as an almost inevitable byproduct of authenticity and moral courage: to stand for something is to stand against something, and that clarity can be what forges true friends.