I would rather live a short life of glory than a long one of obscurity.
Alexander The GreatRead
A tomb now suffices him for whom the whole world was not sufficient.
Interpretation
What this quote means
One's achievements and power are meaningless in the face of death.
This quote by Alexander the Great reflects on the futility of material success and worldly power when faced with mortality. Despite conquering vast territories and being revered as one of the greatest leaders in history, the ultimate end for everyone, including him, is death, which renders all worldly accomplishments insignificant.
Themes
DeathLegacyPowerFutilityMortality
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on the importance of humility in success.
More from Alexander The Great
All quotes βAre you still to learn that the end and perfection of our victories is to avoid the vices and infirmities of those whom we subdue?
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Now you fear punishment and beg for your lives, so I will let you free, if not for any other reason so that you can see the difference between a Greek king and a barbarian tyrant, so do not expect to suffer any harm from me. A king does not kill messengers.
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In the end, when it's over, all that matters is what you've done.
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But truly, if I were not Alexander, I would be Diogenes.
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I am dying with the help of too many physicians.
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