On philosophy and friendship
9:9
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.
These are the so-called “fair-weather” friendships; one who is chosen for the sake of utility will be satisfactory only so long as he is useful.
Hence prosperous men are blockaded by troops of friends; but those who have failed stand amid vast loneliness, their friends fleeing from the very crisis which is to test their worth.
Hence, also, we notice those many shameful cases of persons who, through fear, desert or betray.
The beginning and the end cannot but harmonize.
He who begins to be your friend because it pays will also cease because it pays.
A man will be attracted by some reward offered in exchange for his friendship, if he be attracted by aught in friendship other than friendship itself.
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 9
Content:
9.
These are the so-called “fair-weather” friendships; one who is chosen for the sake of utility will be satisfactory only so long as he is useful.
Hence prosperous men are blockaded by troops of friends; but those who have failed stand amid vast loneliness, their friends fleeing from the very crisis which is to test their worth.
Hence, also, we notice those many shameful cases of persons who, through fear, desert or betray.
The beginning and the end cannot but harmonize.
He who begins to be your friend because it pays will also cease because it pays.
A man will be attracted by some reward offered in exchange for his friendship, if he be attracted by aught in friendship other than friendship itself.