Justice, even if slow, is sure.
SolonRead
No man is happy; he is at best fortunate.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True happiness is rare, and what many consider happiness is merely good fortune.
This quote by Solon suggests that happiness is not a permanent state achievable by everyone; rather, it is often a fleeting experience linked to good luck or favorable circumstances. The idea implies that while we may feel fortunate moments in life, genuine happiness may be more elusive and difficult to attain consistently.
Themes
HappinessFortuneLifeContentmentWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of gratitude, one might reference this quote.
More from Solon
All quotes βLet no man be called happy before his death. Till then, he is not happy, only lucky.
SolonRead
Call no man happy until he is dead, but only lucky.
SolonRead
No one can be said to be happy until he is dead.
SolonRead
Rich people without wisdom and learning are but sheep with golden fleeces.
SolonRead
If through your vices you afflicted are, Lay not the blame of your distress on God; You made your rulers mighty, gave them guards, So now you groan 'neath slavery's heavy rod.
SolonRead
Similar quotes
I don't feel right unless I have a sport to play or at least a way to work up a sweat.
Hank AaronRead
Joy is that kind of happiness that does not depend on what happens.
David Steindl-RastRead
There is nothing quite so satisfying, and so healing, as a good cry.
Leo BuscagliaRead
To those who have as yet not learned the secret of true happiness, which is the joy of coming into the closest relationship with the Maker and Preserver of all things: begin now to study the little things in your own door yard.
George Washington CarverRead
There is so much to love and to admire in this life that it is an act of ingratitude not to be happy and content in this existence.
Lin YutangRead
Happiness: We rarely feel it. I would buy it, beg it, steal it, Pay in coins of dripping blood For this one transcendent good.
Amy LowellRead