Ambition Quote by Robert Burton
![“They [i.e. ambitious men] may not cease, but as a dog in a wheel, a bird in a cage, or a squirrel in a chain, so Budaeus compares them; they climb and climb still, with much labour, but never make an end, never at the top.” quote by Robert Burton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/68e/robert-burton-10069_ambition_they-i-e-ambitious-men-may-not-cease-but_1248849.jpg)
“They [i.e. ambitious men] may not cease, but as a dog in a wheel, a bird in a cage, or a squirrel in a chain, so Budaeus compares them; they climb and climb still, with much labour, but never make an end, never at the top.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Anatomy of Melancholy by Robert Burton, 1621
Ambitious people keep striving endlessly without ever reaching fulfillment, trapped like animals in confinement.
In simple terms: Endless striving without satisfaction.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits and seek contentment.
Themes
ambition
frustration
limits
contentment
Mood
restless
reflective
Type
philosophical
cautionary
When to use this quote
- career advancement
- personal goals
- creative projects
- relationship pursuits
Key Concepts
human nature
perseverance
existential futility
Questions to Reflect On
- What goals are you pursuing without end?
- How can you balance ambition with satisfaction?
A Different Perspective
Endless effort can lead to burnout and loss of purpose.
![“[E]very man hath liberty to write, but few ability. Heretofore learning was graced by judicious scholars, but now noble sciences are vilified by base and illiterate scribblers, that either write for vain-glory, need, to get money, or as Parasites to flatter and collogue with some great men, they…” quote by Robert Burton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/792/robert-burton-10069_books_e-very-man-hath-liberty-to-write-but-few_213260.jpg)
