Display startling novelty-rise afresh like the sun every day. Change too the scene on which you shine, so that you rloss may be felt in the old scenes of your triumph, while the novelty of your powers wins applause in the new.
Baltasar GracianThe hossanas of the multitude can never bring satisfaction to the discerning. Yet there exist those chamaleons of popularity who find their joy, not in the sweet breath of Apollo, but in the smell of the crowd. And not in mind: Do not be taken in by what are miracles to the populace, for the ignorant do not rise above marveling. Thus the stupidity of a crowd is lost in admiration, even as the brain of an individual uncovers the trick.
Baltasar GracianThere is no beauty unaided, no excellence that does not sink to the barbarous, unless saved by art.
Baltasar GracianAttain and maintain a reputation, for it is the usufruct of fame. A stiff climb, for it is the issue of excellence, as rare as mediocrity is common.
Baltasar GracianCunning grows in deceit at seeing itself discovered, and tries to deceive with truth itselft.
Baltasar GracianAdvice is sometimes transmitted more successfully through a joke than grave teaching.
Baltasar GracianLies always come first, dragging fools along by their irreparable vulgarity. Truth always lags last, limping along on the arm of time.
Baltasar GracianDon't show off every day, or you'll stop surprising people. There must always be some novelty left over. The person who displays a little more of it each day keeps up expectations, and no one ever discovers the limits of his talent.
Baltasar GracianShare weight and woe, for misfortune falls with double force on him that stands alone.
Baltasar GracianIf to talk to oneself when alone is folly, it must be doubly unwise to listen to oneself in the presence of others.
Baltasar GracianDo not commit yourself to anybody or anything, for that is to be a slave, a slave to every man Above all, keep yourself free of commitments and obligations - they are the device of another to get you into his power
Baltasar GracianThe best remedy for disturbances is to let them run their course, for so they quiet down.
Baltasar GracianYou can cultivate taste, as you can the intellect. Full understanding whets the appetite and desire, and, later, sharpens the enjoyment of possession.
Baltasar GracianA bad manner spoils everything, even reason and justice; a good one supplies everything, gilds a No, sweetens a truth, and adds a touch of beauty to old age itself.
Baltasar GracianDo not be inaccessible. None is so perfect that he does not need at times the advice of others. He is an incorrigible ass who will never listen to any one. Even the most surpassing intellect should find a place for friendly counsel. Sovereignty itself must learn to lean. There are some that are incorrigible simply because they are inaccessible: They fall to ruin because none dares to extricate them. The highest should have the door open for friendship; it may prove the gate of help. A friend must be free to advise, and even to upbraid, without feeling embarrassed.
Baltasar GracianWise men appreciate all men, for they see the good in each and know how hard it is to make anything good.
Baltasar GracianLittle said is soon amended. There is always time to add a word, never to withdraw one.
Baltasar GracianThe wise are always impatient, for he that increases knowledge increases impatience of folly.
Baltasar Gracian