It is easy at any moment to surrender a large fortune; to build one up is a difficult and an arduous task.
LivyRead
There is always more spirit in attack than in defence.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Attacking often shows more determination and energy than simply defending.
This quote by Livy emphasizes the idea that approaching challenges with a proactive and assertive mindset reveals a stronger spirit than merely protecting oneself from potential threats. It suggests that taking initiative and being bold can lead to greater achievements than adopting a passive stance.
Themes
AttackDefenseSpiritCourageInitiative
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational speech to encourage a sports team before a big game.
More from Livy
All quotes βValor is the soldier's adornment.
LivyRead
The army from Asia introduced a foreign luxury to Rome; it was then the meals began to require more dishes and more expenditure . . . the cook, who had up to that time been employed as a slave of low price, become dear: what had been nothing but a metier was elevated to an art.
LivyRead
The study of history is the best medicine for a sick mind; for in history you have a record of the infinite variety of human experience plainly set out for all to see; and in that record you can find yourself and your country both examples and warnings; fine things to take as models, base things rotten through and through, to avoid.
LivyRead
Under the influence of fear, which always leads men to take a pessimistic view of things, they magnified their enemies' resources, and minimized their own.
LivyRead
The troubles which have come upon us always seem more serious than those which are only threatening.
LivyRead
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