Only a stomach that rarely feels hungry scorns common things.
HoraceRead
When we try to avoid one fault, we are led to the opposite, unless we be very careful.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Avoiding one fault can lead to the development of its opposite if we are not cautious.
The quote by Horace reflects the idea that in our efforts to correct or avoid certain flaws or mistakes, we may inadvertently cultivate their opposites. This highlights the complexity of human behavior and the necessity of mindfulness in our actions, as a reaction against one extreme can sometimes cause us to swing to another extreme, leading to unintended consequences.
Themes
FaultOppositeCarefulnessBehaviorExtremes
In practice
Example use cases
In a self-improvement workshop, one might use this quote to illustrate the importance of balanced personal development.
More from Horace
All quotes βNow is the time for drinking; now the time to beat the earth with unfettered foot.
HoraceRead
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.
HoraceRead
It is of no consequence of what parents a man is born, as long as he be a man of merit.
HoraceRead
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.
HoraceRead
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.
HoraceRead
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Rain which falls upon the sea is useless; so is food for one who is satiated; in vain is a gift for one who is wealthy; and a burning lamp during the daytime is useless.
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Faith is not a blind thing; for faith begins with knowledge. It is not a speculative thing; for faith believes facts of which it is sure. It is not an unpractical, dreamy thing; for faith trusts, and stakes its destiny upon the truth of revelation.
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