Conceal a flaw, and the world will imagine the worst.
A good man doubles the length of his existence; to have lived so as to look back with pleasure on our past existence is to live twice.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Living a good life allows you to reflect on it with joy, effectively granting you a richer existence.
This quote by Martial suggests that the richness and quality of one's life is not merely measured by years lived, but by the experiences and memories that bring joy upon reflection. A good person, through their actions and choices, creates a life that is fulfilling and pleasurable to remember, thus allowing them to 'live twice' by the joy of these memories. It emphasizes the importance of living with intention and kindness to enhance our existence.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about personal growth, one could reference this quote to emphasize the importance of living a meaningful life.
More from Martial
All quotes βLife is not merely to be alive, but to be well.
To the ashes of the dead glory comes too late.
Life's not just about being alive, but being well.
My poems are naughty, but my life is pure.
Neither fear your death's day nor long for it.
Similar quotes
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After the first glass, you see things as you wish they were. After the second, you see things as they are not. Finally, you see things as they really are, and that is the most horrible thing in the world.
You yourself may not be luminous, but you are a conductor of light.
When we are well, we all have good advice for those who are ill.
One day a long time from now you'll cease to care anymore whom you please or what anybody has to say about you. That's when you'll finally produce the work you're capable of.
Anyone can live contentedly in circumstances of ease and comfort, health and well-being gratification and felicity; but to remain happy and contented in the face of difficulty, hardship and the onslaught of disease and sickness-this is an indication of nobility.