"Better be the head of a chicken than the tail of a phoenix" literally means: I would rather be the crown of a chicken than the tail of a phoenix. Metaphor would rather stand out in an environment with a lower level and be sharp-edged, than be unknown in a higher circle.

"Better be the head of a chicken than the tail of a phoenix" is a common saying. This sentence warns people not to sell their self-esteem for power and wealth, even if they are not strong enough, they should be independent and brave.

Moral meaning:

In the chapter "The Warring States Policy: Han Ce I" and "Su Qin is the King of Korea for Chu He Cong", there is a saying that "it is better to be a chicken's mouth than a cow's queen", which is similar to this sentence "I would rather be a chicken's head than a phoenix's tail". Interpretation of "Better be a chicken's mouth than a cow's queen": I would rather be a small and clean chicken's mouth than a big and smelly cow's anus. Later, Yu Ning was independent in a small situation and did not want to be dominated by others in a big situation. Or it is unwise to satirize, use this language more often.

whether you are a chicken head or a phoenix tail, what matters is your mentality. People should live happily and pursue progress. When you are a phoenix tail, don't be depressed all day because you are behind others, but face up to your weaknesses, be detached from external evaluation and try to have a good time. In fact, it doesn't matter whether you are the head of a chicken or the tail of a phoenix. What matters is what attitude you take to face life and the things in front of you. This is the most important thing.

what are the above references? Baidu Encyclopedia-Better to be a chicken's mouth than a cow's queen