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Fortune raises up and fortune brings low both the man who fares well and the one who fares badly; and there is no prophet of the future for mortal men.
Sophocles
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote reflects on the unpredictability of fortune and the human inability to foresee the future.

Sophocles highlights the dual nature of fortune, suggesting that both good and bad circumstances can befall individuals regardless of their actions or character. In essence, he underscores the idea that life is inherently uncertain, and no one can predict how fortune will favor or disfavor them, reminding us of the fragile and transient nature of human experience.

Themes

FortuneFutureUncertaintyLifeHuman Condition

In practice

Example use cases

During a motivational speech about resilience in the face of adversity.

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Quote by Sophocles | QuoteProject