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Ambition often puts men upon doing the meanest offices; so…

“Ambition often puts men upon doing the meanest offices; so climbing is performed in the same posture with creeping.” quote by Jonathan Swift
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“Ambition often puts men upon doing the meanest offices; so climbing is performed in the same posture with creeping.”

Jonathan Swift

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Ambition can drive people to demeaning tasks, making progress feel like a crawl.

In simple terms: Ambition may lead to lowly work.

Key Takeaway

Beware of compromising dignity for ambition.

Themes

ambition ethics humility

Mood

cynical reflective

Type

satirical critical

When to use this quote

  • career advancement
  • political maneuvering
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

social hierarchy self‑interest

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is the cost of ambition worth the gain?
  • How can one stay ethical while striving?
A Different Perspective

Success may require moral compromise.

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