"The foolish are like ripples on water, For whatsoever they do is quickly effaced; But the righteous are like carvings upon stone, For their smallest act is durable"

This quote by Horace speaks to the concept that the actions of the foolish are rapidly forgotten, while the actions of the righteous are kept in mind for a very long time. The metaphor of ripples on water is utilized to show how the silly are rapidly forgotten, as ripples on water quickly dissipate and are forgotten. The metaphor of carvings on stone is utilized to show how the righteous are remembered, as carvings on stone are durable and remain for a long time. This quote is a suggestion that our actions have effects, which our actions will be kept in mind for a long period of time. It is a suggestion to be mindful of our actions and to make every effort to be exemplary, as our actions will have a lasting impact.