He who has a vehement desire for posthumous fame does not consider that every one of those who remember him will himself also die very soon; then again also they who have succeeded them, until the whole remembrance shall have been extinguished as it is transmitted through men who foolishly admire and perish.
In his philosophical meditations, this passage critiques the desire for posthumous fame by highlighting the transient nature of memory and those who hold it.
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Always run to the short way; and the short way is the natural: accordingly say and do everything in conformity with the soundest reason.
Either there is a fatal necessity and invincible order, or a kind providence, or a confusion without a purpose and without a director (iv. 27).
Do not then consider life a thing of any value. + For look to the immensity of time behind thee, and to the time which is before thee, another boundless space.
Be cheerful also, and seek not external help nor the tranquillity which others give.
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