10 Quotes by Archilochus
Archilochus was a Greek lyric poet who lived in the 7th century BC. He is best known for his poetry that expresses his thoughts on war, love, and the complexities of human nature. Archilochus is credited with inventing the poetic form known as the elegiac couplet, which consists of a hexameter followed by a pentameter. His works have influenced many famous writers and poets throughout history, including Shakespeare and T.S. Eliot. Archilochus is also known for his colorful personality and his penchant for getting into trouble, as evidenced by his famous quote, “The fox knows many things, but the hedgehog knows one big thing.” (Bio)
Archilochus Quotes
We don’t rise to the level of our expectations, we fall to the level of our training. (Meaning)
I have a high art, I hurt with cruelty those who would damage me.
Be brave, my heart. Plant your feet and square your shoulders to the enemy. Meet him among the man-killing spears. Hold your ground. In victory, do not brag; in defeat, do not weep. (Meaning)
The Fox knows many things-the hedgehog one big one.
Take the joy and bear the sorrow, looking past your hopes and fears: learn to recognize the measured dance that orders all our years.
Old women should not seek to be perfumed.
Let who will boast their courage in the field, I find but little safety from my shield, Nature’s, not honour’s law we must obey: This made me cast my useless shield away.
These golden matters Of Gyges and his treasuries Are no concern of mine. Jealousy has no power over me, Nor do I envy a god his work, And I do not burn to rule. Such things have no Fascination for my eyes.
Zeus, the father of the Olympic Gods, turned mid-day into night, hiding the light of the dazzling Sun; and sore fear came upon men.
Nothing can be sworn impossible since Zeus made night during mid-day, hiding the light of the shining Sun.
― Archilochus Quotes
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an impact-driven creator at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 life goals around the globe. Tal's journey and recent book, The Art of Fully Living, inspired him to found Elevate Society.
