Meaning: This quote by the Roman historian Sallust reflects on the corrupting influence of ambition on individuals, particularly in the context of political power and leadership. Sallust, who lived during the first century BC, was known for his historical works that focused on the moral and ethical decline of the Roman Republic. In this quote, he highlights how ambition can lead people to adopt deceitful and duplicitous behavior in their pursuit of personal gain and power.

Ambition, in and of itself, is not inherently negative. It is the desire to achieve success and fulfill one's potential. However, Sallust's quote suggests that when ambition is unchecked and becomes the driving force behind a person's actions, it can lead to moral compromise and ethical transgressions. The pursuit of power and status can tempt individuals to sacrifice their integrity and authenticity, leading them to conceal their true thoughts and intentions for the sake of achieving their ambitions.

Sallust's observation is particularly relevant in the context of political leadership, where the quest for power and influence can often overshadow principles and values. Throughout history, ambitious leaders have been known to resort to duplicity and manipulation in order to attain and maintain their positions of authority. This can involve presenting a facade of honesty and virtue while harboring ulterior motives and engaging in deceptive practices behind the scenes.

The dichotomy between the thoughts "locked in the breast" and those "ready on the tongue" speaks to the internal conflict experienced by individuals driven by ambition. They may harbor genuine aspirations and convictions privately, yet feel compelled to espouse different beliefs or make calculated statements publicly in order to advance their agendas. This dissonance can erode the authenticity of their character and lead to a lack of trustworthiness in their interactions with others.

Sallust's perspective on ambition and falsehood also resonates beyond the realm of politics. In various aspects of life, individuals may experience the pressure to compromise their values and integrity in pursuit of personal ambitions, whether in professional, social, or personal contexts. This can manifest as insincerity, manipulation, or the concealment of true intentions for the sake of personal advancement or recognition.

Ultimately, Sallust's quote serves as a cautionary reflection on the potential moral pitfalls of unchecked ambition. It underscores the importance of self-awareness and ethical reflection in the pursuit of goals, emphasizing the need to align one's ambitions with principles of honesty, integrity, and authenticity. By acknowledging the risks of succumbing to falsehood driven by ambition, individuals can strive to maintain a sense of moral clarity and sincerity in their endeavors, thereby mitigating the potential for moral compromise and ethical transgressions.