Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Let our friends perish, provided that our enemies fall at the same time.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests a prioritization of defeating enemies over the wellbeing of friends.
Cicero's quote reflects a stark view on loyalty and conflict, emphasizing that in times of enmity, the demise of adversaries is deemed more favorable than the preservation of friendships. It speaks to the lengths individuals may go to ensure their own survival or victory, even at the cost of those they care about, highlighting the ruthless nature of human relationships during strife.
Themes
FriendsEnemiesLoyaltyConflictSurvival
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about sacrifices made during war, this quote could illustrate the harsh choices faced by those involved.
More from Marcus Tullius Cicero
All quotes βThose wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Orators are most vehement when their cause is weak.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Nothing contributes to the entertainment of the reader more, than the change of times and the vicissitudes of fortune.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
No one has the right to be sorry for himself for a misfortune that strikes everyone.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Advice in old age is foolish; for what can be more absurd than to increase our provisions for the road the nearer we approach to our journey's end.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Similar quotes
How unspeakably the lengthening of memories in common endears our old friends!
George EliotRead
I don't want to be your friend, baby. I am your friend.
Ernest HemingwayRead
Thus people--so it seems to me-- Become good friends from sheer ennui.
Alexander PushkinRead
There is no possession more valuable than a good and faithful friend.
SocratesRead
When I turned 40, I invited Johnny Cash to my party, even though I knew there was gonna be 200 people roasting a pig and wild as can be. He didn't come, but the next day, I got a bowl of chili he'd made and a note that said, 'John, I'd love to come to your party, but that would mean I would have to leave my house.'
John PrineRead
I never meant to write about the experience of losing a good friend to breast cancer when I was going through it. But after it was over, I realized that although something deeply sad had happened, something truly beautiful also had.
Elizabeth BergRead