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Moral Letters Vol I

Seneca

§ Section 1

On the proper style for a philosopher's discourse

40:1

Book Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.

Book Description: Full of insight and wisdom, Seneca's letters are a Stoic treasure. They've influenced famous philosophers, leaders, and students over the centuries. Each letter can be read on its own. By reading this volume you'll absorb the thoughts of a thoughtful Stoic aimed at living well.

1.

I thank you for writing to me so often; for you are revealing your real self to me in the only way you can.

I never receive a letter from you without being in your company forthwith.

If the pictures of our absent friends are pleasing to us, though they only refresh the memory and lighten our longing by a solace that is unreal and unsubstantial, how much more pleasant is a letter, which brings us real traces, real evidences, of an absent friend!

For that which is sweetest when we meet face to face is afforded by the impress of a friend’s hand upon his letter,—recognition.