"He was so tenacious he defied the distraction of women by refusing to have them in his presence, just as later in life he denied his blindness by calling for more and more candles"

This quote speaks to the tenacity of the person being described. He was so identified to remain focused on his goals that he declined to be sidetracked by ladies, although they were likely a temptation. He was so identified to prosper that he contradicted his own blindness, instead requiring increasingly more candles to light his method. This talks to his determination and strength of will, as he refused to be discouraged by any challenge, be it physical or psychological. His perseverance was so strong that he had the ability to conquer any challenge that came his way. He was a real example of the power of the human spirit.