Men are but children of a larger growth, Our appetites as apt to change as theirs, And full as craving too, and full as vain.
John DrydenRead
Even victors are by victories undone.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Victories can lead to unforeseen consequences that may ultimately cause harm to those who achieve them.
This quote by John Dryden suggests that even those who win, or are victorious, may find themselves in difficult situations as a result of their triumphs. It highlights the idea that successes can bring about challenges and responsibilities that can undo the initial benefits of winning, reflecting the complexities of life and human experience.
Themes
VictoryConsequenceResponsibilitySuccessFailure
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about competitive sports, this quote can illustrate how the pressure of success can lead to stress and burnout.
More from John Dryden
All quotes βOf no distemper, of no blast he died, _x000D_ But fell like autumn fruit that mellow'd long: _x000D_ Even wonder'd at, because he dropp'd no sooner. _x000D_ Fate seem'd to wind him up for fourscore years; _x000D_ Yet freshly ran he on ten winters more; _x000D_ Till like a clock worn out with eating time, _x000D_ The wheels of weary life at last stood still.
John DrydenRead
Or hast thou known the world so long in vain?
John DrydenRead
Shame on the body for breaking down while the spirit perseveres.
John DrydenRead
Love reckons hours for months, and days for years; and every little absence is an age.
John DrydenRead
And write whatever Time shall bring to pass_x000D_ _x000D_ With pens of adamant on plates of brass.
John DrydenRead
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