"The way of fortune is like the milkyway in the sky; which is a number of small stars, not seen asunder, but giving light together: so it is a number of little and scarce discerned virtues, or rather faculties and customs, that make men fortunate"
- Francis Bacon
About this Quote
This quote by Francis Bacon is a metaphor comparing the way of fortune to the Milky Way in the sky. He is saying that fortune is made up of numerous small, specific parts that are not easily seen, however when integrated, they create a powerful force. Bacon is recommending that it is not one single virtue or faculty that makes an individual lucky, however rather a mix of many little, typically overlooked qualities. He is stressing the value of having a variety of virtues and customs in order to achieve success. This quote is a suggestion that success is not achieved through one single action, but rather through a mix of numerous little, frequently undetected actions. It is a reminder to be mindful of the small things we do, as they can have a big effect on our lives.
"There is a tide in the affairs of men, Which taken at the flood, leads on to fortune. Omitted, all the voyage of their life is bound in shallows and in miseries. On such a full sea are we now afloat. And we must take the current when it serves, or lose our ventures"
"Though nature be ever so generous, yet can she not make a hero alone. Fortune must contribute her part too; and till both concur, the work cannot be perfected"
