QuoteProject
All things human hang by a slender thread; and that which seemed to stand strong suddenly falls and sinks in ruins.
Ovid
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Life's stability is often illusory, and what seems strong can collapse unexpectedly.

This quote by Ovid reflects on the fragile nature of human existence and achievements. It suggests that everything we perceive as solid and secure can quickly deteriorate, reminding us of the unforeseen circumstances that can disrupt our lives. It serves as a cautionary note about the impermanence of our successes and the inevitability of change.

Themes

FragilityImpermanenceUncertaintyChangeExistence

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a speech about resilience in the face of life's unpredictability.

More from Ovid

We are slow to believe that which if believed would hurt our feelings.
OvidRead
A new idea is delicate. It can be killed by a sneer or a yawn; it can be stabbed to death by a quip and worried to death by a frown on the right man's brow.
OvidRead
Fas est ab hoste doceri._x000D_ One should learn even from one's enemies.
OvidRead
Be patient and tough; someday this pain will be useful to you.
OvidRead
The end doesn't justify the means.
OvidRead
Most safely shall you tread the middle path.
OvidRead

Similar quotes

There are two stories for every life; the one you live & the one others tell
Mitch AlbomRead
Lord, make my way prosperous, not that I achieve high station, but that my life may be an exhibit to the value of knowing God.
Jim ElliotRead
This Grave contains all that was Mortal of a Young English Poet Who on his Death Bed in the Bitterness of his Heart at the Malicious Power of his Enemies Desired these words to be engraved on his Tomb Stone "Here lies One Whose Name was writ in Water."
John KeatsRead
Yet the stupid believe they are awake, busily and brightly assuming they understand things, calling this man ruler, that one herdsman – how dense! Confucius and you are both dreaming! And when I say you are dreaming, I am dreaming, too. Words like these will be labeled the Supreme Swindle.
ZhuangziRead
Of course that is not the whole story, but that is the way with stories; we make them what we will. It's a way of explaining the universe while leaving the universe unexplained, it's a way of keeping it all alive, not boxing it into time.
Jeanette WintersonRead
From my perspective, I think the question of how we build a better future is an extremely important overarching question, and I think it's become obscured from us because we no longer think it's possible to have a meaningful conversation about the future.
Peter ThielRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.