Pulvis et umbra sumus.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- We are dust and shadow.
- In plain terms
- Human life is fleeting and insubstantial.
- What can you take from it?
- Remember our mortality.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does acknowledging mortality affect your choices?
- What gives life meaning despite its brevity?
Another view
It can also inspire nihilism.
More from Horace
Exegi monumentum aere perennius
Permalink to quote #16 Nullius addictus iurare in verba magistri, quo me cumque rapit tempestas, deferor hospes.
Permalink to quote #18 Ille potens sui laetusque deget, cui licet in diem dixisse 'vixi: cras vel atra nube polum pater occupato vel sole puro.'
Permalink to quote #15
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