Perhaps you say, Why are the wicked joyous? Why do they live in luxury? Why do they not toil with me? It is because they who have not put down their names to strive for the crown are not bound to undergo the labors of the contest. They who have not gone down into the race-course do not annoint themselves with oil nor get covered with dust. For those whom glory awaits trouble is at hand. The perfumed spectators are wont to look on, not to join in the struggle, nor to endure the sun, the heat, the dust, and the showers ...

Summary

This quote explains the perceived advantage of the wicked who seem joyful and live in luxury while avoiding the toil and struggles of those who strive for success. The speaker suggests that it is because the wicked have not committed themselves to the pursuit of greatness and do not face the difficult challenges that accompany it. They do not experience the physical exertion or endure adverse conditions, unlike those who strive for glory and must go through rigorous trials. In contrast, the superficial and comfortable observers simply enjoy watching the struggle without engaging in it themselves.

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