# CXXVIII explained — Short Works

> Chapter companion for Short Works by Epictetus.

## What happens

The chapter contrasts the passive, time-bound relief of the foolish from sorrow with the active, immediate relief provided to the wise through the application of reason.

## Themes in this chapter

### Reason as Guide and Consolation

Explicitly identifies reason as the tool that actively relieves the wise from sorrow, contrasting it with passive waiting.

### Dichotomy of Control

Implies the wise use reason to manage their internal judgments (within their control) regarding sorrow, rather than waiting for external time to pass.

## Character check-ins

### Epictetus

The author of the aphorism, contrasting the remedies of time and reason.

## Key lines

> Time relieves the foolish from sorrow, but reason relieves the wise.

Foolish people must wait for the passage of time to ease their pain, while wise people use rational understanding to free themselves from it immediately.

_Core aphorism of the chapter, establishing the central contrast._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/chapters/cxxviii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/chapters