The Satires, Epistles, and Art of Poetry of Horace

A collection of Roman satirical poetry likely written in the 1st century BC. This work presents Horace’s reflections on various themes, including human nature, happiness, morality, and the art of writing. The collection is known for its wit and deep understanding of social dynamics, showcasing Horace's keen observations of both personal and societal behaviors. The opening of the text introduces commentary on the nature of contentment and the universal tendency to envy others. Horace engages in a dialogue with his patron Maecenas, pondering why individuals seem perpetually dissatisfied with their own lives, often yearning for the fortunes of others. He reflects on contrasting lifestyles—from soldiers to merchants—and critiques the folly in such discontent, advocating instead for an appreciation of what one has. This introductory satire sets the tone for subsequent explorations of virtue, vice, and the complex web of human interaction, underscoring Horace's dual role as both observer and commentator on the human condition.