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Roman bronze portrait fragment of Marcus Aurelius, after 170 CE, Louvre collection. Photo: Marie-Lan Nguyen (2007); derivative uploaded by Waterborough / Wikimedia Commons , Public domain (author release) . No content alteration; resized display. Meditations is most interesting when read as a writer reminding himself how to act, rather than as a collection of slogans from someone who had already mastered life. Marcus Aurelius returns to responsibility, reputation, change and his own judgments. The repetition suggests work in progress. Read a passage before turning it into a rule Begin with a short section of Book Five or Book Six . Ask what situation or temptation the reminder addresses. Is the writer considering a duty, resentment, praise or the impermanence of things? Then distinguish the passage’s claim from your own application. A reminder about attending to one’s work might prompt you to finish an honest report. It does not automatically justify working without rest or acce...