We cannot control the evil tongues of others; but a good life enables us to disregard them.
Cato The ElderRead
After I am dead, I would rather have men ask why Cato has no monument than why he had one.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Cato values legacy and how one is remembered over societal recognition after death.
Cato The Elder's quote emphasizes the importance of how one is remembered after death, suggesting that he would prefer to be questioned about the absence of a monument rather than the presence of one, indicating a preference for a life lived with integrity over one that seeks validation or accolades. It reflects a philosophical stance on the nature of legacy, suggesting that true worth comes from one's actions and character rather than external recognition or material memorials.
Themes
LegacyRememberingIntegrityPhilosophyActions
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a memorial speech to emphasize living a meaningful life.
More from Cato The Elder
All quotes βAn angry man opens his mouth and shuts his eyes.
Cato The ElderRead
I think the first virtue is to restrain the tongue; he approaches nearest to gods who knows how to be silent, even though he is in the right.
Cato The ElderRead
Tis sometimes the height of wisdom to feign stupidity.
Cato The ElderRead
Lighter is the wound foreseen.
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Patience is the greatest of all virtues.
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