When ambitious men find an open passage, they are rather…
“When ambitious men find an open passage, they are rather busy than dangerous; and if well watched in their proceedings, they will catch them selves in their own snare, and prepare a way for their own destruction.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Ambitious people who act without caution become trapped by their own schemes.
In simple terms: Ambition without caution leads to self‑destruction
Key Takeaway
Beware overconfidence and plan carefully
Themes
ambition
self‑sabotage
warning
Mood
cautionary
reflective
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political power
- business ventures
- personal goals
- strategic planning
Key Concepts
human nature
hubris
Questions to Reflect On
- What checks can prevent reckless ambition?
- When have you seen ambition backfire?
A Different Perspective
Overconfidence can create self‑inflicted traps.