Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
It is like taking the sun out of the world, to bereave human life of friendship.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Friendship is essential to human existence and happiness.
In this quote, Cicero highlights the profound impact that friendship has on human life, equating its absence to the loss of sunlight, which is vital for sustaining life. The metaphor emphasizes that friendships enrich our lives and contribute significantly to our overall happiness and well-being.
Themes
FriendshipLifeHappinessHuman ConnectionImportance
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of social bonds, one could use this quote to emphasize the value of friendships.
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
I truly believed that the cost of success for us shouldn't be the cost of failure for a good friend.
Jodi PicoultRead
But, of course, it isn't really Good-bye, because the Forest will always be there... and anybody who is Friendly with Bears can find it.
A. A. MilneRead
You cannot be friends upon any other terms than upon the terms of equality.
Woodrow WilsonRead
Farewell, and may the blessing of Elves and Men and all Free Folk go with you. May the stars shine upon your faces!
J. R. R. TolkienRead
There is no possession more valuable than a good and faithful friend.
SocratesRead
Be slow to fall into friendship; but when thou art in, continue firm and constant.
SocratesRead