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When evening comes, I return to my home, and I go into my…

“When evening comes, I return to my home, and I go into my study; and on the thresh-hold, I take off my everyday clothes, which are covered in mud and mire,and I put on regal and curial robes; and dressed in a more appropriate manner I enter into the ancient courts of ancient men and am welcomed by…” quote by Niccolò Machiavelli
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““When evening comes, I return to my home, and I go into my study; and on the thresh-hold, I take off my everyday clothes, which are covered in mud and mire,and I put on regal and curial robes; and dressed in a more appropriate manner I enter into the ancient courts of ancient men and am welcomed by them kindly, and there I taste the food that alone is mine, and for which I was born; and there I am not ashamed to speak to them, to ask them the reasons for their actions; and they, in their humanity, answer me; and for four hours I feel no boredom,I dismiss every affliction, I no longer fear poverty nor do I tremble at the thought of death; I become completely part of them.””

Niccolò Machiavelli

About This Quote

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

Retreating into intellectual contemplation provides escape from daily hardships, offering clarity, purpose, and a sense of belonging among like‑minded thinkers.

In simple terms: Study gives peace, purpose, and community.

Key Takeaway

Seek knowledge to transcend everyday struggles.

Themes

intellectual refuge self‑reflection community

Mood

contemplative hopeful

Type

inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • personal crisis
  • creative work
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

philosophical immersion mental escape identity affirmation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does scholarly immersion affect your daily life?
  • Can contemplation replace real‑world engagement?
A Different Perspective

Over‑reliance on intellectualism may neglect practical action.

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