“It is the stars, The stars above us, govern our conditions.”
- April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616
- Born in England
- Playwright, poet, actor
- Wrote many masterpieces such as “Hamlet,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Macbeth,” and had a great influence on English literature
Quote
“It is the stars, The stars above us, govern our conditions.”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night expresses the belief in fate or destiny, suggesting that external forces, symbolized here by the stars, play a dominant role in shaping our lives and circumstances. “The stars above us” refer to the celestial bodies, which were historically believed to have an influence over human affairs and personal fortunes. The phrase “govern our conditions” implies that our circumstances—whether good or bad—are determined by forces beyond our control, and we are subject to their influence.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the concept of fate or the idea that external factors (such as luck, circumstance, or destiny) shape our lives, regardless of our own efforts or intentions. It can be seen as an expression of fatalism, where one might believe that outcomes in life are preordained or beyond individual control, much like the idea in astrology that one’s birth chart influences their path in life. For example, people might say, “It’s written in the stars,” when referring to relationships, careers, or life events that seem inevitable or out of their hands.
Ultimately, this quote explores the tension between free will and destiny. It suggests that while individuals may aspire to control their own futures, there may be larger, cosmic or fate-driven forces that guide our paths. It encourages reflection on how we understand our own role in shaping our circumstances versus the idea that some things may be predetermined.
