Chance Quote by Lucan
““Whether the author of the universe, when the fire gave place and he first took in his hand the shapeless realm of raw matter, established the chain of causes for all eternity, and bound himself as well by universal law, and portioned out the universe, which endures the ages prescribed for it, by a fixed line of destiny; or whether nothing is ordained and Fortune, moving at random, brings round the cycle of events, and chance is master of mankind - in either case, let they purpose, whatever it be, be sudden; let the mind of man be blind to coming doom; he fears, but leave him hope.””
About This Quote
Source Epic Poem: Pharsalia (also known as De Bello Civili) by Lucan, 61 AD
Whether destiny or chance governs the universe, humans should act boldly, accept uncertainty, and cling to hope despite inevitable doom.
In simple terms: Act boldly despite unknown fate.
Key Takeaway
Embrace uncertainty and keep hope alive.
Themes
philosophy
fate
hope
human agency
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- leadership during crisis
- creative projects
- risk taking
Key Concepts
determinism
randomness
existentialism
courage
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “sudden purpose” mean to you?
- How can hope persist amid uncertainty?
A Different Perspective
The passage mixes mythic language with philosophical speculation, which may limit practical application.