I have often wondered how it is that every man loves himself more than all the rest of men, but yet sets less value on his own opinions of himself than on the opinions of others.
Marcus AureliusRead
Cinna wishes to seem poor, and is poor
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects a paradox where the desire to appear impoverished aligns with actual poverty, emphasizing the value of authenticity over superficial appearances.
Marcus Aurelius presents a thought-provoking idea that seeks to challenge our understanding of wealth and status. By stating that Cinna wishes to seem poor and is poor, he highlights the importance of authenticity and the internal state of being over external appearances. It suggests that genuine humility and simplicity can be richer than ostentatious displays of wealth, prompting a reflection on the nature of true prosperity.
Themes
AuthenticityPovertyHumilityWealthSimplicity
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on stoicism, one might reference this quote to discuss the value of living authentically.
More from Marcus Aurelius
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Do not act as if you were going to live ten thousand years. Death hangs over you. While you live, while it is in your power, be good.
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Vex not thy spirit at the course of things; they heed not thy vexation. How ludicrous and outlandish is astonishment at anything that may happen in life.
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You don't have to turn this into something. It doesn't have to upset you. Things can't shape our decisions by themselves.
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A man's worth is no greater than his ambitions.
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