There is no greater fame for a man than that which he wins with his footwork or the skill of his hands.
HomerRead
But curb thou the high spirit in thy breast, for gentle ways are best, and keep aloof from sharp contentions.
Interpretation
What this quote means
It is wise to control one's pride and avoid conflicts, as kindness is more effective.
This quote emphasizes the importance of humility and gentleness in interactions with others. Homer suggests that while one may possess a strong and spirited nature, it is beneficial to temper that spirit with gentleness and to steer clear of contentious situations, as a peaceful approach leads to more favorable outcomes.
Themes
GentlenessHumilityConflictWisdomSpirit
In practice
Example use cases
During a team meeting, I used this quote to remind everyone to approach disagreements with kindness.
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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Be strong, saith my heart; I am a soldier; I have seen worse sights than this.
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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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