There is no greater fame for a man than that which he wins with his footwork or the skill of his hands.
HomerRead
Young men's minds are always changeable, but when an old man is concerned in a matter, he looks both before and after.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the difference in perspective between youth and age, particularly in terms of decision-making and foresight.
Homer's quote reflects on the wisdom gained with age and experience, suggesting that while young people may often act on impulse and desire, older individuals tend to consider the consequences of their actions more deeply. This awareness of both past and future allows older individuals to make more informed and careful decisions, valuing the lessons learned through life experiences.
Themes
WisdomAgeExperienceDecision-MakingForesight
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about childhood versus adult decision-making, one could use this quote to emphasize the importance of experience.
More from Homer
All quotes βFor Fate has wove the thread of life with pain,_x000D_ _x000D_ And twins ev'n from the birth are Misery and Man!
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Sing, O muse, of the rage of Achilles, son of Peleus, that brought countless ills upon the Achaeans.
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There is nothing nobler or more admirable than when two people who see eye to eye keep house as man and wife, confounding their enemies and delighting their friends.
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[I]t is the wine that leads me on, the wild wine that sets the wisest man to sing at the top of his lungs, laugh like a fool β it drives the man to dancing... it even tempts him to blurt out stories better never told.
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