“Tuning the lyre and handling the harp are no accomplishments of mine, but rather taking in hand a city that was small and inglorious and making it glorious and great.”
This powerful statement, recorded by the ancient historian Plutarch, cuts to the heart of what defines impactful leadership. It draws a sharp line between personal, refined talents and the monumental task of building a thriving society. The speaker dismisses artistic skill not because it lacks value, but because their own calling is far grander. It is the work of transformation. This quote champions a vision of leadership focused on tangible, large-scale achievement over personal accolades. It serves as a timeless reminder to measure success by the growth and prosperity we cultivate in the world around us.
Ultimately, the words challenge us to consider our own priorities. Do we focus on tuning our own lyres, or do we dedicate ourselves to building something lasting and magnificent for the collective good?
The Speaker and the Stage
To fully grasp the quote’s weight, we must understand its origins. Source The Greek historian and biographer Plutarch penned these words in his famous work, Parallel Lives. In this collection, he attributes the sentiment to Themistocles, a brilliant and ambitious Athenian statesman and general. Themistocles was a pivotal figure in the early 5th century BC. He was not an aristocrat known for refined arts but a populist leader who rose through shrewdness and strategic genius.
His legacy was built on action, not aesthetics. For example, he persuaded Athens to build a powerful navy. This decision proved crucial in defeating the Persian invasion at the Battle of Salamis. Themistocles literally transformed Athens from a vulnerable city-state into a dominant naval power. Therefore, his supposed dismissal of the harp and lyre aligns perfectly with his historical character. He was a pragmatist who understood that the security and glory of Athens depended on strong walls and mighty ships, not beautiful melodies. His focus was entirely on elevating his city from a modest state to a great empire.
A Tale of Two Accomplishments
The quote’s power lies in its central metaphor: the lyre versus the city. This contrast establishes a clear hierarchy of values for a leader responsible for the welfare of others. It is not simply about choosing one skill over another; it is about choosing a different scale of impact and purpose.