On philosophy and friendship
9:7
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.
7.
There is the same difference between winning a new friend and having already won him, as there is between the farmer who sows and the farmer who reaps.
The philosopher Attalus used to say: “It is more pleasant to make than to keep a friend, as it is more pleasant to the artist to paint than to have finished painting.” When one is busy and absorbed in one’s work, the very absorption affords great delight; but when one has withdrawn one’s hand from the completed masterpiece, the pleasure is not so keen.
Henceforth it is the fruits of his art that he enjoys; it was the art itself that he enjoyed while he was painting.
In the case of our children, their young manhood yields the more abundant fruits, but their infancy was sweeter.
Book: Moral Letters Vol I
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On philosophy and friendship
Location: Chapter 9, Section 7
Content:
7.
There is the same difference between winning a new friend and having already won him, as there is between the farmer who sows and the farmer who reaps.
The philosopher Attalus used to say: “It is more pleasant to make than to keep a friend, as it is more pleasant to the artist to paint than to have finished painting.” When one is busy and absorbed in one’s work, the very absorption affords great delight; but when one has withdrawn one’s hand from the completed masterpiece, the pleasure is not so keen.
Henceforth it is the fruits of his art that he enjoys; it was the art itself that he enjoyed while he was painting.
In the case of our children, their young manhood yields the more abundant fruits, but their infancy was sweeter.