Only a stomach that rarely feels hungry scorns common things.
HoraceRead
It is of no consequence of what parents a man is born, as long as he be a man of merit.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A person's worth is determined by their character and achievements, not their lineage or background.
This quote emphasizes the importance of personal merit over one's family background or social status. Horace suggests that what truly matters in life is not the circumstances of one's birth but rather the actions and accomplishments that define an individual. It advocates for the value of hard work and integrity as the true measures of a person's character.
Themes
MeritCharacterWorthAccomplishmentsBackground
In practice
Example use cases
During a graduation speech to inspire students from diverse backgrounds.
More from Horace
All quotes βNow is the time for drinking; now the time to beat the earth with unfettered foot.
HoraceRead
Carpe 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.
HoraceRead
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.
HoraceRead
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