What is symbolized by the Sword of Damocles?

The Sword of Damocles symbolizes impending peril and disaster. This allusion originates from a story about Damocles, who was a courtier in the court of Dionysius II of Syracuse. Damocles envied the king's wealth and power, so Dionysius offered to switch places with him for a day to show him the lavish lifestyle at the top. However, during the feast, Damocles noticed a sword hanging by a single horsehair directly over his head, which instilled a sense of impending doom. This imagery conveys the idea that with great power and fortune comes significant danger and anxiety, highlighting the precarious nature of happiness and success. In literature and discussions, the Sword of Damocles serves as a metaphor for the ever-present threat that can overshadow one's achievements or comfort.