Single Idea 13324

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 2. Elements of Virtue Theory / b. Living naturally]

Full Idea

For those who follow nature everything is easy and straightforward, whereas for those who fight against her life is just like rowing against the stream.

Gist of Idea

Living contrary to nature is like rowing against the stream

Source

Seneca the Younger (Letters from a Stoic [c.60], 102)

Book Reference

Seneca: 'Letters from a Stoic (Selections)', ed/tr. Campbell,Robin [Penguin 1969], p.226


A Reaction

A classic statement of the well-known stoic slogan, but expressed with Seneca's characteristic elegance. There is always a slight hidden of dubious fatalism in the slogan. 'Rage, rage, against the dying of the light!' - Dylan Thomas.