"For what the horse does under compulsion, as Simon also observes, is done without understanding; and there is no beauty in it either, any more than if one should whip and spur a dancer"

This quote by Xenophon is referring to the concept that forcing a horse to do something without comprehending or appreciation of the job will not lead to a stunning result. He is comparing this to a dancer who is required to perform with using a whip and a spur. Xenophon is recommending that the horse, like the dancer, will not have the ability to carry out to its max capacity if it is not allowed to comprehend and value the task. He is indicating that the horse, like the dancer, ought to be allowed to comprehend and value the job in order to attain a lovely result. This quote is a reminder that forcing someone or something to do something without comprehending or appreciation will not lead to a gorgeous outcome. It is essential to permit individuals and animals to comprehend and value the task in order to achieve the best possible result.