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Ambition first sprung from your blest abodes: the glorious fault of angels and of gods.
Alexander Pope
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Ambition is a powerful drive that originates from high ideals, often revered but also seen as a flaw in both divine and mortal realms.

In this quote, Alexander Pope reflects on the nature of ambition, suggesting that it has its roots in exalted places associated with divine beings. While ambition can lead to greatness, it is also described as a 'glorious fault', highlighting the duality of this drive, which can inspire both admirable achievements and potential downfalls, depending on how it is pursued.

Themes

AmbitionAspirationSuccessDivineDrive

In practice

Example use cases

During a motivational speech to inspire students at a graduation ceremony.

More from Alexander Pope

Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
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What dire offence from am'rous causes springs, What mighty contests rise from trivial things.
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Fair tresses man's imperial race ensnare; And beauty draws us with a single hair.
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An honest man's the noblest work of God.
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One thought of thee puts all the pomp to flight;_x000D_ _x000D_ Priests, tapers, temples, swim before my sight.
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Who breaks a butterfly on a wheel?
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