Ocellus Lucanus: On the Nature of the Universe

Pindar, Olymp. Od. 2.

The utility of riches.

(Wealth adorned with virtues brings the opportunity for these things and those, sustaining a deep, searching care; which wealth is a most bright star, a true light to man); but furthermore, that perfect

Necessity for those philosophizing.

happiness, whose parent is philosophy, demanded the same [resources], for it languishes when deprived of their vital protection; for truly, as far as contemplation extends, so too does happiness, and to those in whom contemplation is more present, happiness is also more present, not by accident but by virtue of contemplation (as far as contemplation extends, so far also does happiness extend; and to whomsoever contemplation is more present, it is certain that happiness is also more present to them). Moreover, however, there will also be need of external prosperity for one who is human. For nature is not self-sufficient for contemplation, but it is necessary that the body be healthy, and that food and other requirements be supplied (there will also be need of external prosperity for a man born. For nature is not self-sufficient for contemplation, but it is necessary that the body be healthy, and food, and other requirements be at hand) Ethics, Book 10, ch. 8 & 9. Nevertheless, as these resources had fallen to outsiders, they could only be reclaimed through the monstrous fury of lawsuits—which, more savage than the very Erinyes, demand the presence of the plaintiff, that they may either more heavily weary him with new sorrow day by day with a wavering countenance, or rack him more vehemently with the most slippery hope. Yet let Fortune probe my mind with whatever sharp stings she will; the sacred name of Philosophy and its special devotion shall always remain fixed within it, nor shall it be overwhelmed by any weight of encroaching evils, however great. And though the foulest dregs of litigation may rush in, never from her