Meaning: The quote "The good of other times let people state; I think it lucky I was born so late" is attributed to the Roman poet Ovid. This thought-provoking statement reflects Ovid's perspective on his own time and the era in which he lived. Ovid, also known as Publius Ovidius Naso, was a prolific Roman poet who lived during the reign of Emperor Augustus. He is best known for his epic poem "Metamorphoses" and his work has had a profound influence on Western literature and art.

In this quote, Ovid seems to express a sense of contentment with the period in which he lived, suggesting that he considers himself fortunate to have been born in his own time rather than in the past. The sentiment behind this statement can be interpreted in various ways, and it reflects Ovid's perspective on the advantages and opportunities afforded by the era in which he lived.

One interpretation of this quote is that Ovid may have been reflecting on the progress and advancements of his own time. The Roman Empire was a period of great cultural, artistic, and intellectual flourishing, and Ovid may have been acknowledging the benefits of living in such a dynamic and innovative era. He might have been grateful for the opportunities and developments that were available to him, which may not have been accessible in earlier periods of history.

Furthermore, Ovid's statement could also be viewed as a reflection of his personal experiences and the unique circumstances of his life. Ovid lived during a time of significant political and social change in Rome, and his own life was marked by both success and adversity. His exile to Tomis (modern-day Constanța, Romania) by Emperor Augustus in 8 AD undoubtedly shaped his perspective on his own time and the challenges he faced as a poet and public figure.

Moreover, Ovid's quote speaks to the universal human tendency to romanticize the past and idealize different time periods. Throughout history, people have often looked back on earlier eras with nostalgia, imagining them as more idyllic, simpler, or more morally upright than their own time. Ovid's assertion that he was fortunate to have been born in his own era challenges this romanticization of the past and asserts the value and importance of the present.

In conclusion, Ovid's quote "The good of other times let people state; I think it lucky I was born so late" encapsulates his perspective on the era in which he lived, expressing a sense of gratitude and contentment with his own time. This statement invites us to consider the value of the present, the progress of the past, and the individual experiences that shape our perceptions of different time periods. Ovid's words continue to resonate with readers, prompting reflection on the complexities of history, the human experience, and the enduring relevance of his insights.