People often become scholars for the same reason they become soldiers: simply because they are unfit for any other station. Their right hand has to earn them a livelihood; one might say they lie down like bears in winter and seek sustenance from their paws.

Summary

This quote suggests that some individuals pursue a scholarly path or engage in intellectual pursuits not out of genuine passion or aptitude, but rather because they lack the skills or abilities to excel in other professions. It draws a parallel between scholars and soldiers, implying that both career choices can be a refuge for those who are not well-suited for other forms of employment. The metaphor of bears in winter symbolizes the reliance on their own abilities, where they depend on their "paws" or intellectual capabilities to sustain themselves and earn a living.

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