From the little we know (Plato of Athens by Robin Waterfield), he led a boring life by today’s standards. 

He thought, taught, wrote, dabbled in politics (and failed). He didn’t marry and was possibly gay in his youth (as was usual in Ancient Greece). He didn’t think highly of poetry, drama and popular entertainment. 

He didn’t travel much. He lived away from the bustling city, as an (almost reclusive) academic.

But, he was highly respected in his own time. He became a cult hero after his death (though he wouldn’t have cared for it). And he continues to influence our lives even today. His ideas hold sway in politics, science, art, philosophy, and many other fields. 

He deeply examined ideas such as love, friendship, justice, courage, knowledge, etc., but usually ended his dialogues inconclusively, inspiring the reader to think for himself. 

The search for truth is possibly a lifelong journey, with no definite destination, but many personally satisfying milestones one can look forward to. We need to cultivate wonder and curiosity. 

Plato’s daily routine was probably repetitive, with very few distractions. Boring for many today, who seek refuge in the drudgery of daily life and revel in the growing frivolous amusements of modernity. 

Who’s life is stale? Plato’s or ours?