Fortune soon tires of carrying anyone long on her shoulders

Fortune soon tires of carrying anyone long on her shoulders

In the context of Baltasar Gracian's writings, the quote "Fortune soon tires of carrying anyone long on her shoulders" holds a deep and profound meaning. Gracian, a Spanish Jesuit and baroque prose writer, was known for his philosophical works that delved into the complexities of human nature and the unpredictability of life. This quote encapsulates one of the central themes in Gracian's writings - the transient and fickle nature of fortune.

Gracian believed that fortune, or luck, was not something that could be relied upon or taken for granted. He understood that success and prosperity were often fleeting, and that one must be prepared for the inevitable ups and downs that life brings. In his works, Gracian often emphasized the importance of adaptability, resilience, and self-reliance in the face of adversity.

The quote "Fortune soon tires of carrying anyone long on her shoulders" speaks to the idea that luck and good fortune do not last forever. Just as quickly as fortune can smile upon someone, it can just as easily turn its back and leave them in despair. Gracian believed that those who become too dependent on luck or external circumstances are setting themselves up for disappointment and failure. Instead, he advocated for a more proactive and self-reliant approach to life, where one takes control of their own destiny and does not rely solely on external forces for success.