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Jan 06, 2023, 11:44 AM
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Member Since: Aug 2013
Posts: 929
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Howdy Measlies,
One of the ways I reflect on quotes is to unpack them then convert to a maxim in my own words. Today's random pick if #165 from The Art of Worldly Wisdom by Balthasar Gracian.
Quote:
clxv Wage War Honourably.
You may be obliged to wage war, but not to use poisoned arrows. Every one must needs act as he is, not as others would make him to be. Gallantry in the battle of life wins all men's praise: one should fight so as to conquer, not alone by force but by the way it is used. A mean victory brings no glory, but rather disgrace. Honour always has the upper hand. An honourable man never uses forbidden weapons, such as using a friendship that's ended for the purposes of a hatred just begun: a confidence must never be used for a vengeance. The slightest taint of treason tarnishes the good name. In men of honour the smallest trace of meanness repels: the noble and the ignoble should be miles apart. Be able to boast that if gallantry, generosity, and fidelity were lost in the world men would be able to find them again in your own breast.
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THIS is exactly what I've been mulling over: why do I have to constrict myself to the "the rules" and "fair play" and what law calls "clean hands"? And the counter-party can avoid, delay, lie, and brush aside? Well here's why, from the 1500's no less.
Key ideas: - Gallantry in the battle of life wins all men's praise.
- An honourable man never uses forbidden weapons.
- Be able to boast that if gallantry, generosity, and fidelity were lost in the world men would be able to find them again in your own breast.
Now scribbling towards a maxim: The gods and surprising forces support all who engage for decency and our common good with clean hands.
18 words. I like my maxims shorter ... Clean hands for the common good can cut down great evil.
11 words. Hm. Clean hands dissolve evil!
4 words. That'll do. Refreshed.
R.
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