22.
That is how a foolish mind is most clearly demonstrated: it shows first in this shape and then in that, and is never like itself—which is, in my opinion, the most shameful of qualities.
Believe me, it is a great rôle—to play the rôle of one man.
But nobody can be one person except the wise man; the rest of us often shift our masks.
At times you will think us thrifty and serious, at other times wasteful and idle.
We continually change our characters and play a part contrary to that which we have discarded.
You should therefore force yourself to maintain to the very end of life’s drama the character which you assumed at the beginning.
See to it that men be able to praise you; if not, let them at least identify you.
Indeed, with regard to the man whom you saw but yesterday, the question may properly be asked: “Who is he?” So great a change has there been!
Farewell.
Book: Moral Letters Vol III
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: More about virtue
Location: Chapter 120, Section 22
Content:
22.
That is how a foolish mind is most clearly demonstrated: it shows first in this shape and then in that, and is never like itself—which is, in my opinion, the most shameful of qualities.
Believe me, it is a great rôle—to play the rôle of one man.
But nobody can be one person except the wise man; the rest of us often shift our masks.
At times you will think us thrifty and serious, at other times wasteful and idle.
We continually change our characters and play a part contrary to that which we have discarded.
You should therefore force yourself to maintain to the very end of life’s drama the character which you assumed at the beginning.
See to it that men be able to praise you; if not, let them at least identify you.
Indeed, with regard to the man whom you saw but yesterday, the question may properly be asked: “Who is he?” So great a change has there been!
Farewell.