“There is no one, says another, whom fortune does not visit once in his life; but when she does not find him ready to receive her, she walks in at the door, and flies out at the window.”
- January 18, 1689 – February 10, 1755
- French
- Political Philosopher, Jurist, Author of The Spirit of the Laws
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Quote
“There is no one, says another, whom fortune does not visit once in his life; but when she does not find him ready to receive her, she walks in at the door, and flies out at the window.”
Explanation
Montesquieu uses vivid metaphor to illustrate a timeless truth: opportunity comes to everyone, but only those prepared can seize it. Fortune is personified as a guest who briefly enters every life. However, if one is not ready—lacking the skill, awareness, or courage to act—fortune departs as quickly as she arrived. This highlights the role of personal readiness in transforming chance into success.
This idea fits with Enlightenment thought, which emphasized rational planning, self-discipline, and human agency over blind fate. Montesquieu does not deny that luck exists; rather, he insists that its benefits are reserved for those who have cultivated themselves to act when the moment arises. His image of fortune flying “out the window” underscores how fleeting such moments are—and how permanent the loss can feel if missed.
In modern contexts—whether in career, innovation, or relationships—the quote remains strikingly relevant. Success often hinges not on being lucky, but on being prepared when luck arrives. Montesquieu’s lesson is clear: life offers opportunities, but it is up to each person to be ready to recognize and act on them before they vanish.
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