You each succeed better in what you are busy and earnest about; Philip in actions, you in words.
Demosthenes: “You each succeed better in what you are busy and earnest about; Philip in actions, you in words.”
Editor's note · Context
In a speech to the Athenian assembly, contrasting the practical effectiveness of Philip's military actions with Athens's focus on rhetoric.
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So report says, and I can well believe it; for undeserved success leads weak-minded men into folly; and thus it appears often, that to maintain prosperity is harder than to acquire it.
The present crisis, O Athenians, requires, if any ever did, much thought and counsel.
To this point are the affairs of Athens brought, that the more fully and clearly one convicts Philip of violating the peace with you, and plotting against the whole of Greece, the more difficult it becomes to advise you how to act.
The present juncture, Athenians, all but proclaims aloud, that you must yourselves take these affairs in hand, if you care for their success.





