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Moral Letters Vol I

Seneca

§ Section 13

On the first cause

65:13

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.

13.

Do you maintain that form is a cause?

This is only what the artist stamps upon his work; it is part of a cause, but not the cause.

Neither is the pattern a cause, but an indispensable tool of the cause.

His pattern is as indispensable to the artist as the chisel or the file; without these, art can make no progress.

But for all that, these things are neither parts of the art, nor causes of it.