A philosopher might have deplored this lack of mental ambition, but only if he was about where his next meal was coming from.In fact Lancre's position and climate bred a hard-headed and straightforward people who often excelled in the world down below. it had supplied the planins with many of their greatest wizards and witches and, once again, the philospher might have marveled that such a four-square people could give the world so many successful magical practitioners, being quite unaware that only those with their feet on rock can build castles in the air.

Summary

This quote explains that the people of Lancre, despite their lack of mental ambition, have excelled in practical fields. The philosopher mentioned would only criticize their mindset if he himself were struggling financially. Lancre's geographical and climatic conditions have shaped its people to be practical and successful in worldly pursuits. It has produced skilled wizards and witches because they understand the importance of having a grounded foundation before reaching for the fantastic. The philosopher's lack of insight prevents them from recognizing that building castles in the air requires a solid footing.

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