For of those [cities] that were great in earlier times…
“For of those [cities] that were great in earlier times, most of them have now become small, while those which were great in my time were small formerly.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Cities rise and fall; greatness is temporary and context‑dependent.
In simple terms: Cities change over time.
Recognize impermanence of status.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- political strategy
- cultural preservation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What can modern societies learn from past cities?
- How can we sustain lasting impact?
Focusing on past glory can hinder future innovation.