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Poetry · Chapter
CXCIII explained
A brief aphorism contrasting the attitudes of a fool and a philosopher toward prosperity and adversity.
What happens
A brief aphorism contrasting the attitudes of a fool and a philosopher toward prosperity and adversity.
Key passages
“When prosperous the fool trembles for the evil that is to come; in adversity the philosopher smiles for the good that he has had.”
In times of success, a foolish person fears future misfortune, while in times of hardship, a wise person finds comfort in past blessings.
This aphorism reflects on contrasting responses to fortune and misfortune.