The passage discusses the interplay between human excellence and external factors, particularly luck, in Greek thought. Pindar's poem highlights the vulnerability and dependence of human excellence, likening it to a vine tree that grows in the world, needing care and nourishment from both nature and society. This metaphor underscores the tension between the inherent qualities of a person and the external conditions that shape their life. The text explores how this tension affects ethical practices and the belief systems that sustain them. It questions whether human goodness can be fully realized without external influences and whether praise and self-sufficiency are compatible with the contingent and vulnerable nature of human life. The discussion also delves into the role of reason in addressing these issues, suggesting that while reason can guide and control some aspects of human life, it may not fully eliminate the influence of luck and contingency. The text concludes by emphasizing the importance of exploring both the tragic and philosophical perspectives on human excellence and the role of luck in shaping it.The passage discusses the interplay between human excellence and external factors, particularly luck, in Greek thought. Pindar's poem highlights the vulnerability and dependence of human excellence, likening it to a vine tree that grows in the world, needing care and nourishment from both nature and society. This metaphor underscores the tension between the inherent qualities of a person and the external conditions that shape their life. The text explores how this tension affects ethical practices and the belief systems that sustain them. It questions whether human goodness can be fully realized without external influences and whether praise and self-sufficiency are compatible with the contingent and vulnerable nature of human life. The discussion also delves into the role of reason in addressing these issues, suggesting that while reason can guide and control some aspects of human life, it may not fully eliminate the influence of luck and contingency. The text concludes by emphasizing the importance of exploring both the tragic and philosophical perspectives on human excellence and the role of luck in shaping it.