Astrology Quote by Mark Forsyth
““If Jupiter was in the ascendant when you were born, you are of a jovial disposition; and if you're not jovial but miserable and saturnine that's a disaster, because a disaster is a dis-astro, or misplaced planet. Disaster is Latin for ill-starred. The fault, as Shakespeare put it, is not in our stars; but the language is.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Elements of Eloquence, 2014
He jokes about astrology and language, noting that “disaster” literally means “misplaced star.”
In simple terms: Word origins can be funny and reveal hidden meanings.
Key Takeaway
Notice how language shapes perception.
Themes
language
humor
astrology
Mood
playful
analytical
Type
philosophical
humorous
When to use this quote
- writing
- teaching
- debates about fate
Key Concepts
etymology
misinterpretation
cultural beliefs
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the literal meaning of “disaster” suggest?
- How do we let language influence belief?
A Different Perspective
Humor may oversimplify complex ideas.
![“Wouldst like to con a glimmer with me this early black?’, which he [Cab Calloway] helpfully explains as ‘the proper way to ask a young lady to go to the movies’. It should be noted here, that if the object of your affections replies ‘Kill me’, they are not requesting to be euthanatised and you…” quote by Mark Forsyth](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6c4/mark-forsyth-19782_cab-calloway_wouldst-like-to-con-a-glimmer-with-me-th_738657.jpg)
