He is a fool who looks at the fruit of lofty trees, but does not measure their height.
Quintus Curtius RufusRead
When the truth cannot be clearly made out, what is false is increased through fear.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Fear can distort perceptions of truth, leading to false beliefs.
This quote suggests that when the truth is obscured or unclear, people tend to fill the gaps with falsehoods, driven by fear. In times of uncertainty, the human tendency to fear the unknown leads to an increase in misguided beliefs and assumptions, highlighting the importance of seeking clarity and understanding.
Themes
TruthFearFalsehoodBeliefsPerception
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about facing fears and uncertainties.
More from Quintus Curtius Rufus
All quotes βA timid dog barks more violently than it bites. Curtius Canis timidus vehementius latrat quam mordet
Quintus Curtius RufusRead
Similar quotes
For other things mild Heav'n a time ordains, And disapproves that care, though wise in show, That with superfluous burden loads the day, And when God sends a cheerful hour, refrains.
John MiltonRead
Everything you are comes from your choices.
Jeff BezosRead
Indeed, I am very sorry to be right in this instance. I would much rather have been merry than wise.
Jane AustenRead
I have taken to living by my wits.
Arthur Conan DoyleRead
The acknowledgment of our weakness is the first step in repairing our loss.
Thomas A KempisRead
Within each of us there is a silence as vast as the universe. We long for it. We can return to it.
Jack KornfieldRead