All the world knows me in my book, and my book in me.
Michel De MontaigneRead
No profession or occupation is more pleasing than the military; a profession or exercise both noble in execution (for the strongest, most generous and proudest of all virtues is true valor) and noble in its cause. No utility either more just or universal than the protection of the repose or defense of the greatness of one's country. The company and daily conversation of so many noble, young and active men cannot but be well-pleasing to you.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The military profession is deeply honorable and essential for protecting one's country, fostering camaraderie and valor among its members.
In this quote, Michel De Montaigne extols the virtues of the military profession, highlighting its nobility both in the courageous acts it involves and in the noble cause of defending one's country. He emphasizes that the relationships formed within the military, filled with valor and camaraderie among brave individuals, make it a fulfilling and admirable vocation.
Themes
MilitaryValorCourageNobilityDefenseCountry
In practice
Example use cases
During a Memorial Day speech to honor veterans.
More from Michel De Montaigne
All quotes →All I say is by way of discourse, and nothing by way of advice. I should not speak so boldly if it were my due to be believed.
Michel De MontaigneRead
Pythagoras used to say that life resembles the Olympic Games: a few people strain their muscles to carry off a prize; others bring trinkets to sell to the crowd for gain; and some there are, and not the worst, who seek no other profit than to look at the show and see how and why everything is done; spectators of the life of other people in order to judge and regulate their own.
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There is not much less vexation in the government of a private family than in the managing of an entire state.
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Those who have compared our life to a dream were right... we were sleeping wake, and waking sleep.
Michel De MontaigneRead
Such as are in immediate fear of a losing their estates, of banishment, or of slavery, live in perpetual anguish, and lose all appetite and repose; whereas such as are actually poor, slaves, or exiles, ofttimes live as merrily as other folk.
Michel De MontaigneRead
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