Plutarch

Every line we carry

Each one links to its source, what it means, and the shirt in any of our looks.

1. The mind isn't a jar to be filled. It's wood that needs a spark.

   This is the real source of the line 'the mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled'. Plutarch says the mind does not need filling like a jar but only kindling like wood, to start a drive for discovery and a desire for truth. Good teaching lights you up; it does not just load you up.

   On Listening to Lectures 48c, our translation from the Greek

2. We're alive, we're healthy, we see the sun. Count that.

   Plutarch says we should not overlook common blessings but rejoice that we live, are healthy and see the sun, that there is no war, and that the sea is open to sail. Gratitude starts with the obvious. Most days, the basics are already a lot.

   On Tranquility of Mind 469e, our translation from the Greek

3. No pilot can calm the waves. A steady character serves you better.

   Plutarch says a good disposition is more useful in life than a pilot is at sea, because a pilot cannot calm a rough wave or the wind. You cannot control the sea. You can control what kind of sailor you are.

   On Tranquility of Mind 475f-476a, our translation from the Greek

4. Know your enemy watches you, and you'll watch yourself.

   Plutarch says the man who knows his enemy is a rival for his life and reputation pays closer attention to himself, looks around his affairs and puts his life in better order. A critic is free motivation. Let them keep you sharp.

   How to Profit by One's Enemies 88a, our translation from the Greek

5. A small act, a word or a joke shows character more than great battles.

   Plutarch explains why his Lives dwell on small details: a brief act, a phrase or a jest often reveals character more clearly than battles with thousands dead and the greatest sieges. Watch how people behave when nothing big is at stake.

   Life of Alexander 1.2, our translation from the Greek