Revenge is sweeter than life itself. So think fools.
JuvenalRead
Dat veniam corvis, vexat censura columbas. - Censure acquits the raven, but pursues the dove.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Criticism is often more lenient towards those who are guilty while unfairly targeting the innocent.
This quote by Juvenal highlights the paradox of criticism, where the wrongdoings of the guilty (the raven) are overlooked, while the innocent (the dove) face undue scrutiny. It suggests a societal tendency to forgive or ignore the flaws of the corrupt, while harshly judging those who are virtuous or harmless.
Themes
CriticismInnocenceGuiltSocietyJustice
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about fairness in judgment, one might say, 'As Juvenal stated, censure acquits the raven, but pursues the dove.'
More from Juvenal
All quotes βPeace visits not the guilty mind.
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An incurable itch for scribbling takes possession of many, and grows inveterate in their insane breasts.
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Poverty is bitter, but it has no harder pang than that it makes men ridiculous.
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All wish to possess knowledge, but few, comparatively speaking, are willing to pay the price.
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This is his first punishment, that by the verdict of his own heart no guilty man is acquitted.
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