To live with tremendous and proud composure; always beyond…
““To live with tremendous and proud composure; always beyond —. To have and not to have one's affects, one's pro and con, at will; to condescend to them, for a few hours; to seat oneself on them as on a horse, often as on an ass — for one must know how to make use of their stupidity as much as of their fire. To reserve one's three hundred foregrounds; also the dark glasses; for there are cases when nobody may look into our eyes, still less into our "grounds." And to choose for company that impish and cheerful vice, courtesy. And to remain master of one's four virtues: of courage, insight, sympathy, and solitude.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A complex guide to mastering emotions, using both intellect and folly, and choosing lively companions while cultivating four core virtues.
In simple terms: Control emotions, use both reason and play, keep four virtues.
Key Takeaway
Balance reason, playfulness, and virtue in life.
Themes
self‑mastery
virtue
playfulness
Mood
analytical
inspirational
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- leadership
- creative work
- personal development
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
emotional intelligence
existentialism
philosophical resilience
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you harness both reason and play?
- Which virtue needs more practice?
A Different Perspective
Balancing intellect and folly can be unstable; virtues may conflict.