Who wrote If wishes were horses beggars would ride?

The proverb "If wishes were horses, beggars would ride" is so old that its exact origin is unknown. It's a traditional proverb, meaning it has been passed down through generations and doesn't have a single known author.

However, there are some possible origins and variations:

* Folklore: The proverb likely originated in folklore, where it was used to express the futility of wishing for something you can't have.

* Early Literature: It has been found in various forms in early English literature, such as the 14th-century poem "The Vision of William concerning Piers Plowman".

* Similar Proverb: A very similar proverb, "If wishes were fish, we would all eat oysters," appeared in the 15th century, suggesting an evolution of the saying.

While there's no one definitive author, "If wishes were horses, beggars would ride" is a classic proverb that reflects a universal truth about the limitations of wishful thinking.