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Section 121

DEMODOCUS. Socrates, I have been wanting to speak with you privately about a certain matter, if you have the time; and even if you are somewhat busy, I beg you to make time for me, unless your business is of the utmost importance.

SOCRATES. I happen to be quite at leisure, and for your sake, Demodocus, I am especially available. You may say whatever you wish.

DEMODOCUS. Will you come aside with me then, out of the way, into the portico of Zeus the Liberator?

SOCRATES. As you please.

DEMODOCUS. Socrates, all things concerning plants, both in the earth and in the case of animals—and humans are animals too—seem to follow a similar pattern. For those of us who cultivate the earth, it is the easiest thing in the world to prepare the soil to receive the plant, and to do the planting itself. But once what is planted takes root and begins to grow, the care of it becomes very difficult and burdensome. The same seems to be true concerning human beings, and I infer this from my own experience with my son here. The begetting of him, whatever one ought to call it, was the easiest part; but his upbringing has been a difficult task, filled with constant fear and anxiety about him. There is much I could mention, but the desire that currently holds him is frightening me greatly. It is not exactly a bad desire, but a dangerous one, Socrates. For you see, this boy has conceived a sudden desire to become wise.