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 madness to make fortune the mistress of events, because by herself she is nothing and is ruled by prudence.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Relying solely on luck is foolish; good judgment is essential for success.
This quote emphasizes the importance of prudence and wise decision-making in determining outcomes, rather than leaving events to chance or fortune. It suggests that while fortune can play a role, it is ultimately our rational choices that govern our destiny.
Themes
FortuneMadnessPrudenceEventsJudgment
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about success, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of planning.
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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