Good sir, it is as much the part of great spirits to have patience when the world frowns upon them, as to be joyful when all goes well. Indeed I have heard say that this same she-thing they call Fortune is a whimsical freakish drunken queen, and blind into the bargain; so that she neither sees what she does, nor knows whom she raises, nor whom she casts down.
The quote reflects the notion that great individuals must remain patient in the face of adversity as much as they celebrate when fortune smiles upon them. It underlines the importance of enduring challenges with grace, suggesting that resilience is a noble quality. This perspective emphasizes that life's ups and downs are natural and that a person's character is tested during tough times.
Moreover, the reference to Fortune as a "whimsical freakish drunken queen" illustrates her unpredictable nature, signifying that success and failure often occur without reason or fairness. This portrayal suggests that Fortune operates without clear judgment, impacting individuals' lives without regard for merit. Thus, it advocates for a balanced outlook, encouraging people to accept both their highs and lows with equanimity.
