Brave man Quote by C.P. Cavafy
““The god abandons Antony When at the hour of midnight an invisible choir is suddenly heard passing with exquisite music, with voices ― Do not lament your fortune that at last subsides, your life’s work that has failed, your schemes that have proved illusions. But like a man prepared, like a brave man, bid farewell to her, to Alexandria who is departing. Above all, do not delude yourself, do not say that it is a dream, that your ear was mistaken. Do not condescend to such empty hopes. Like a man for long prepared, like a brave man, like the man who was worthy of such a city, go to the window firmly, and listen with emotion but not with the prayers and complaints of the coward (Ah! supreme rapture!) listen to the notes, to the exquisite instruments of the mystic choir, and bid farewell to her, to Alexandria whom you are losing.””
About This Quote
When loss looms, the poet urges acceptance without self‑deception, urging one to confront reality with courage, listening to the inevitable rather than clinging to false hopes.
In simple terms: Face loss bravely, without deluding yourself.
Key Takeaway
Embrace reality, reject comforting delusions.
Themes
mortality
acceptance
courage
philosophy of loss
Mood
melancholy
resolute
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- grieving a loved one
- leaving a hometown
- ending a long‑term relationship
Key Concepts
existential authenticity
psychological resilience
Practical Applications
- practice mindful listening to present emotions
- write a farewell letter
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one balance acceptance with hope?
- What does ‘listening without complaint’ look like in practice?
A Different Perspective
The call to reject hope may feel harsh to those who find solace in optimism during grief.
