Now is the time for drinking; now the time to beat the earth with unfettered foot.
HoraceRead
Only a stomach that rarely feels hungry scorns common things.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that those who are not often in need tend to disregard the value of simple or common things.
Horace's quote emphasizes the idea that people who experience regular abundance may overlook the significance of everyday life. When one's basic needs are consistently met, there can be a tendency to undervalue modest or commonplace aspects of life, which often hold true beauty and importance. It serves as a reminder to appreciate the simple things, particularly for those who may take them for granted due to their circumstances.
Themes
AppreciationAbundanceValueSimple ThingsContentment
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about gratitude, one might say, 'Only a stomach that rarely feels hungry scorns common things' to illustrate the importance of appreciating what we have.
More from Horace
All quotes βCarpe diem! Rejoice while you are alive; enjoy the day; live life to the fullest; make the most of what you have. It is later than you think.
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It is of no consequence of what parents a man is born, as long as he be a man of merit.
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It is not the rich man you should properly call happy, _x000D_ but him who knows how to use with wisdom the blessings of the gods, _x000D_ to endure hard poverty, and who fears dishonor worse than death, _x000D_ and is not afraid to die for cherished friends or fatherland.
HoraceRead
Few cross the river of time and are able to reach non-being. Most of them run up and down only on this side of the river. But those who when they know the law follow the path of the law, they shall reach the other shore and go beyond the realm of death.
HoraceRead
Doctrina sed vim promovet insitam. Instruction enlarges the natural powers of the mind.
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