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About this quote

What does it mean?
Fortune is like glass: it shines brightly just before it breaks.
In plain terms
Success often ends suddenly at its peak.
What can you take from it?
Enjoy success while it lasts, knowing it can shatter.

Where it applies

  • careers
  • relationships
  • financial booms

Putting it to work

  • plan for downturns
  • value the present

Questions to consider

  • How do you prepare for sudden change?
  • Is peak success a warning sign?

Another view

Some successes endure without sudden collapse.

More from Publilius Syrus

  1. Fortuna cum blanditur, captatum venit.

    Permalink to quote #15

  2. Fortunam citius reperias quam retineas.

    Permalink to quote #17

  3. When Fortune is on our side, popular favor bears her company.

    Permalink to quote #14

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