I had read the great book of experience and I had learned from it that great enterprises were not to be talked about but executed, though with due regard for the power which Fortune exercises over all the undertakings of men.
Giacomo Casanova - History of my life (4, 14)
Since my dear soul was mistress of her choice
And could of men distinguish her election
Hath sealed thee for herself; for thou hast been
As one in suff'ring all that suffers nothing
A man that fortune’s buffets and rewards
Hast ta'en with equal thanks. And blessed are those
Whose blood and judgment are so well co-meddled,
That they are not a pipe for Fortune’s finger,
To sound what stop she please. Give me that man
That is not passion’s slave, and I will wear him
In my heart’s core, ay, in my heart of heart,
As I do thee. -
William Shakespeare - Hamlet
(The New Oxford Shakespeare - The Complete Works, Modern Critical Edition)
(Ever since I’ve been a free agent in my choice of friends, I’ve chosen you because you take everything life hands you with calm acceptance, grateful for both good and bad. Blessed are those who mix emotion with reason in just the right proportion, making them strong enough to resist the whims of Lady Luck. Show me the person who’s master of his emotions, and I’ll put him close to my heart—in my heart of hearts—as I do you. [No Fear Shakespeare])
Fiule, poți vedea cât de-n zadar
e binele ce-l are-n griji Fortuna,
și pentru care toți se încăierar';
căci aurul întreg ce e sub lună
și care-a fost, din inimi-ostenite
nu poate odihni măcar vreuna.
Dante Alighieri - Infernul (VII, 60-66)
