So in the Libyan fable it is told That once an eagle…
“So in the Libyan fable it is told That once an eagle, stricken with a dart, Said, when he saw the fashion of the shaft: With our own feathers, not by others' hands, Are we now smitten.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
An eagle, wounded by a dart, reflects that its own feathers caused the harm, implying self‑inflicted suffering.
In simple terms: Self‑caused pain can be as sharp as external attacks.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and address self‑generated harm.
Themes
self‑responsibility
pain
reflection
cause and effect
myth
lesson
Mood
thoughtful
cautionary
Type
mythic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- conflict resolution
- personal growth
- leadership decisions
- health management
Key Concepts
tragic flaw
self‑awareness
personal accountability
Questions to Reflect On
- What are your own “feathers” that cause harm?
- How can you change self‑destructive patterns?
A Different Perspective
Blaming external forces may prevent learning from mistakes.