Master of the Game

EPIGRAPH

‘And hence one master-passion in the breast, Like Aaron’s serpent, swallows up the rest.’

– ALEXANDER POPE

Essay on Man, Epistle II

‘Diamonds resist blows to such an extent that an iron hammer may be split in two and even the anvil itself may be displaced. This invincible force, which defies Nature’s two most violent forces, iron and fire, can be broken by ram’s blood. But it must be steeped in blood that is fresh and warm and, even so, many blows are needed.’

– PLINY THE ELDER