Letter 62 presents a reflection on personal freedom, the value of self-mastery, and the importance of intellectual companionship over material wealth or social status. Seneca criticizes those who claim they are too busy for philosophical pursuits due to their many "affairs," suggesting instead that true freedom comes from controlling one’s engagements rather than being controlled by them. He shares his practice of using his time for personal reflection and maintaining mental…

            In letters from a stoic 21, Lucilius seems to be wanting to depart his job. It’s known that Lucilius was a procurator in Rome. What was not clear is that if he was departing his job for retirement, which Seneca advised him on letter 19, or if he was trying to get another job. Seneca told Lucilius that if he was trying to find an “ideal state of calm”…