Aquila non capit muscas Popular culture Proverb. Ancient Roman period. Italy (ancient Rome). 0 0 0 0 Write the first comment Meaning The phrase suggests that individuals of great power, importance, or capability do not waste their time on insignificant or trivial matters. Just as an eagle, a symbol of strength and majesty, does not bother with tiny flies, so too do people who aim for greatness avoid getting distracted by petty issues. It reflects a mindset of prioritizing one's focus on what truly matters and not being sidetracked by the inconsequential. Allegory The eagle soaring high represents individuals of great stature, strength, and focus. Its elevated position in the sky, above the chaotic swarm of flies, underscores its indifference and superiority to trivial matters. The flies, buzzing around crumbs on the ground, symbolize petty concerns and distractions. The expansive horizon and brilliant sunrise in the background convey new opportunities and the importance of forward-looking ambition. This allegorical image illustrates the heart of the proverb: focusing on significant matters and rising above the trifles of everyday life. Applicability In personal life, this phrase encourages focusing on significant goals and avoiding distractions. For instance, if one is pursuing a major career ambition or educational achievement, it's important not to be bogged down by minor annoyances or irrelevant challenges. It’s a reminder to maintain perspective and aim high, without getting caught up in less important details. Impact The impact of this phrase extends to literature, daily discourse, and even formal rhetoric. It has been a touchstone in discussions about leadership, authority, and effective time management. Many influential figures, from orators to authors, have used similar ideas to convey the importance of focusing on substantial matters. Historical Context Although the exact origin date is unclear, this phrase is rooted in ancient Roman culture. The metaphor of the eagle was common in Roman and later European symbolism, representing power and authority. Criticisms Some critics might argue that the phrase could be interpreted as dismissive, implying a disregard for the small but possibly significant tasks. In leadership, focusing only on broad, major issues could lead to the oversight of important finer details. Balancing attention to both macro and micro elements is often crucial for success. Variations There are few variations of this phrase across different cultures, each encapsulating the same core message. For instance, in Japanese, there's a proverb: "No need to care about tiny bugs (些細なことに注意を払う必要はない)" that carries a similar meaning. While the creature or context might change, the central idea remains the same. Go back to the description 280 characters left Send Comment No Comments Lupus in fabula. Popular culture and classical literature Read more Certus anceps. Popular culture Read more A horse! a horse! my kingdom for a horse! William Shakespeare Read more Qui nescit tacere, nescit loqui. Popular culture Read more Amicitia facit divites. Popular culture Read more Suae quisque fortunae faber. Appius Claudius Caecus Read more All that glisters is not gold. William Shakespeare Read more Primus inter pares. Popular culture Read more To weep is to make less the depth of grief. Ovid Read more Perseverando vinces. Popular culture Read more By signing in, you'll enable saving your preferences and be able to post comments. By signing in, you'll enable saving your preferences and be able to post comments. Sign in with: or Sign in with your email address: Email Password Sign in Loading... Name Insert your name or nick (3 to 20 char). Email Insert a valid email address to be verified. Password 8+ chars, 1 uppercase, 1 lowercase, 1 number, 1 special @$!%*?_+ Clicking the Create account button will send you a verification email. Create account New here? Create an account. Previous Close