Quote by Samuel Butler
Virtue knows that it is impossible to get on without compromise, and tunes herself, as it were, a trifle sharp to allow for an inevitable fall in playing.
Summary
This quote highlights the understanding that virtue acknowledges the need for compromise in life. It suggests that being virtuous means being aware of the impossibility of absolute perfection and instead adjusting oneself to accommodate the inevitable mistakes or failures that may occur along the way. Just as a musical instrument might be tuned slightly higher to anticipate a potential drop in pitch during performance, virtue prepares itself for challenges and setbacks, recognizing that flexibility and forgiveness are essential in navigating the complexities of life.