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Tis so much to be a king, that he only is so by being so.
Michel De Montaigne
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Interpretation

What this quote means

True kingship is defined by the essence of being a king, not merely by title or position.

This quote by Michel De Montaigne suggests that the nature of kingship transcends the mere title of 'king'β€”one must embody the qualities and responsibilities of a king to truly be one. It highlights the importance of authenticity and the inherent attributes that define leadership, rather than the superficial trappings of power.

Themes

KingshipLeadershipAuthenticityPowerIdentity

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a graduation speech to emphasize the importance of being true to oneself.

More from Michel De Montaigne

All the world knows me in my book, and my book in me.
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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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