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
It is a madness to make fortune the mistress of events, because in herself she is nothing, can rule nothing, but is ruled by prudence.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Relying solely on luck or fortune in life is foolish; careful judgment is what truly influences outcomes.
This quote emphasizes the importance of prudence and careful decision-making over mere reliance on chance or luck. John Dryden suggests that fortune or luck is unpredictable and cannot be controlled, while prudence, which represents wisdom and foresight, is what truly shapes the course of events in our lives.
Themes
FortunePrudenceWisdomDecision-MakingControl
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about achieving goals, this quote can inspire individuals to focus on their planning rather than relying on luck.
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?
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Shame on the body for breaking down while the spirit perseveres.
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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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