On Sure Bets

[sdi]

Once, while Anaxagoras of Klazomenai was lecturing, a messenger arrived and told him that both of his sons had died. Untroubled, he answered, "I had a feeling they were born mortal," and he continued on with his lecture.

(Ælian, Varia Historia III ii)

Comments

[thinking_turtle]

At first instance this feels like a thousand year old Chuck Norris joke. On second reading I remember that children were seen differently back then, more as family resources and less as friends. On third thoughts that cold of a response still feels as real as the latest Aquaman movie.

Best wishes for 2024! May lots of interesting quotes find your way!

[sdi]

Thank you—may you have many blessings in the year ahead!