Only a stomach that rarely feels hungry scorns common things.
HoraceRead
Many heroes lived before Agamemnon; but all are unknown and unwept, extinguished in everlasting night, because they have no spirited chronicler.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Without recognition and storytelling, the deeds of many may fade into obscurity.
This quote by Horace reflects on the importance of historians and storytellers in preserving the legacies of individuals. It suggests that many great heroes existed before the well-known figures like Agamemnon, yet they remain unrecognized and forgotten because they lacked someone to document their lives and achievements, highlighting the role of memory and narrative in shaping history.
Themes
HistoryMemoryLegacyHeroesStorytelling
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of preserving history, you could say, 'Many heroes lived before Agamemnon; but all are unknown and unwept.'
More from Horace
All quotes →Now is the time for drinking; now the time to beat the earth with unfettered foot.
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Carpe diem! Rejoice while you are alive; enjoy the day; live life to the fullest; make the most of what you have. It is later than you think.
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It is of no consequence of what parents a man is born, as long as he be a man of merit.
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It is not the rich man you should properly call happy, _x000D_ but him who knows how to use with wisdom the blessings of the gods, _x000D_ to endure hard poverty, and who fears dishonor worse than death, _x000D_ and is not afraid to die for cherished friends or fatherland.
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Few cross the river of time and are able to reach non-being. Most of them run up and down only on this side of the river. But those who when they know the law follow the path of the law, they shall reach the other shore and go beyond the realm of death.
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