The willow which bends to the tempest, often escapes better than the oak which resists it and so in great calamities, it sometimes happens that light and frivolous spirits recover their elasticity and presence of mind sooner than those of a loftier character.

Summary

This quote suggests that those who are adaptable and flexible, like the willow tree that bends with the storm instead of resisting it, often fare better in times of crisis compared to those who stand firm and resist change, like the oak tree. It implies that individuals with lighter and more playful demeanors might recover more quickly from major disasters or challenging situations than those with more serious and stoic personalities.

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