Only a stomach that rarely feels hungry scorns common things.
HoraceRead
The foolish are like ripples on water, For whatsoever they do is quickly effaced; But the righteous are like carvings upon stone, For their smallest act is durable.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote contrasts the fleeting actions of the foolish with the lasting impact of the righteous.
Horace's quote reflects the idea that the actions of foolish people are insignificant and easily forgotten, like ripples that vanish on water. In contrast, the righteous leave a lasting legacy through their deeds, akin to carvings that withstand the test of time. This highlights the importance of living a life of integrity and purpose, where one's actions endure and contribute positively to the world.
Themes
ActionsLegacyRighteousnessFoolishnessImpact
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech to inspire students to focus on meaningful actions.
More from Horace
All quotes →Now is the time for drinking; now the time to beat the earth with unfettered foot.
HoraceRead
Carpe diem! Rejoice while you are alive; enjoy the day; live life to the fullest; make the most of what you have. It is later than you think.
HoraceRead
It is of no consequence of what parents a man is born, as long as he be a man of merit.
HoraceRead
It is not the rich man you should properly call happy, _x000D_ but him who knows how to use with wisdom the blessings of the gods, _x000D_ to endure hard poverty, and who fears dishonor worse than death, _x000D_ and is not afraid to die for cherished friends or fatherland.
HoraceRead
Few cross the river of time and are able to reach non-being. Most of them run up and down only on this side of the river. But those who when they know the law follow the path of the law, they shall reach the other shore and go beyond the realm of death.
HoraceRead
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