But if anyone were to conduct his life by reason He would…
“But if anyone were to conduct his life by reason He would find great riches in living a peaceful life And being contented; one is never short of a little But men want always to be powerful and famous So that their fortune rests on a solid foundation And they can spend a placid life in opulence. There isn't a hope of it; to attain great honours You have to struggle along a dangerous way And even when you reach the top there is envy Which can strike you down like lightning into Tartarus. For envy, like lightning, generally strikes at the top Or any point which sticks out from the ordinary level.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Reason leads to a peaceful, content life, but human desire for power and fame drives struggle, envy, and danger, showing the conflict between rational tranquility and ambition.
In simple terms: Reason offers peace; ambition brings conflict.
Key Takeaway
Balance rational living with healthy ambition.
Themes
philosophy
human nature
ambition
Mood
thoughtful
philosophical
Type
classical
ethical
When to use this quote
- career planning
- financial decisions
- personal growth
- leadership development
Key Concepts
ethics
stoicism
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- Is peace worth sacrificing ambition?
- How can ambition be pursued ethically?
A Different Perspective
Ambition may cause envy and risk.