Now I would solicit the particular attention of those…
““Now I would solicit the particular attention of those numerous people who imagine that money is everything in this world, and that rank and ability are inseparable from wealth: let them observe that Cincinnatus, the one man in whom Rome reposed all her hope of survival, was at that moment working a little three-acre farm (now known as Quinctian meadows) west of the Tiber, just opposite the spot where the shipyards are today. A mission from the city found him at work on his land - digging a ditch, maybe, or ploughing. Greetings were exchanged, and he was asked - with a prayer for God's blessing on himself and his country - to put on his toga and hear the Senate's instructions. This naturally surprised him, and, asking if all were well, he told his wife Racilia to run to their cottage and fetch his toga. The toga was brought, and wiping the grimy sweat from his hands and face he put it on; at once the envoys from the city saluted him, with congratulations, as Dictator, invited him to enter Rome, and informed him of the terrible danger of Minucius's army.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A humble farmer, Cincinnatus, was called to lead Rome in crisis, showing that virtue and duty outweigh wealth and status.
In simple terms: A simple farmer became a leader when needed.
Key Takeaway
Serve when called, regardless of status.
Themes
virtue
leadership
humility
service
citizenship
Mood
respectful
inspirational
thoughtful
Type
historical
inspirational
civic
When to use this quote
- political crisis
- military emergency
- public service
- personal sacrifice
Key Concepts
Republicanism
civic duty
selflessness
Questions to Reflect On
- What would you do if called to lead unexpectedly?
- How does humility affect authority?
A Different Perspective
May idealize simplicity, ignoring practical governance challenges.