I would rather live a short life of glory than a long one of obscurity.
There is something noble in hearing myself ill spoken of, when I am doing well.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the idea that one can rise above criticism when they know they are acting morally and rightly.
Alexander the Great's quote suggests that there is a certain dignity or nobility in maintaining one's integrity and self-worth in the face of negative comments or misinterpretations by others. It conveys the idea that external judgment does not diminish one's value or the goodness of their actions, especially when they are aligned with their principles and purpose. In essence, it speaks to the strength of character required to endure criticism while remaining steadfast in one's commitment to doing what is right.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a leadership seminar, one might cite this quote to inspire resilience in facing detractors.
More from Alexander The Great
All quotes βAre you still to learn that the end and perfection of our victories is to avoid the vices and infirmities of those whom we subdue?
Now you fear punishment and beg for your lives, so I will let you free, if not for any other reason so that you can see the difference between a Greek king and a barbarian tyrant, so do not expect to suffer any harm from me. A king does not kill messengers.
In the end, when it's over, all that matters is what you've done.
But truly, if I were not Alexander, I would be Diogenes.
A tomb now suffices him for whom the whole world was not sufficient.
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My passport photo is one of the most remarkable photographs I have ever seen- no retouching, no shadows, no flattery-just stark me.
That seems to me the greatest American danger we're all in, that we'll bargain away the experience of being alive for the appearance of it.
Where justice is denied, where poverty is enforced, where ignorance prevails, and where any one class is made to feel that society is an organized conspiracy to oppress, rob and degrade them, neither persons nor property will be safe.