“Follow your own star!”
- c. 1265 – September 14, 1321
- Italian
- Poet, Writer, Philosopher, Author of The Divine Comedy
table of contents
Quote
“Follow your own star!”
Explanation
This quote, “Follow your own star!”, is genuinely connected to the spirit of Dante Alighieri’s work, particularly The Divine Comedy, though not in this exact wording. In Inferno, Canto XV, Dante is encouraged by the character Brunetto Latini to pursue his destiny, with the line often translated as “Follow your star, and you cannot fail to reach a glorious port.” Thus, while the commonly quoted version is a simplified paraphrase, it is faithful in meaning to Dante’s original sentiment.
The core idea reflects Dante’s belief in individual purpose and divine guidance. In the medieval worldview, a person’s “star” could symbolize their fate, divine inspiration, or innate calling. By urging one to follow their own star, Dante implies that each person must pursue their unique moral and spiritual path, even when it diverges from social or political pressures. This reflects Dante’s own life—his exile from Florence forced him to rely on personal conviction rather than public approval.
In modern contexts, this quote resonates as a call for authenticity and courage in the pursuit of one’s goals. Whether it be an artist staying true to their vision or a student pursuing an unconventional field of study, the advice encourages people to trust their inner compass. It serves as a timeless reminder that integrity and purpose lead to fulfillment, even in the face of adversity.
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