Always leave something to wish for; otherwise you will be miserable from your very happiness.

They make the greatest show of what they have done, who have done least.

Yes and no are soon said, but give much to think over.

Honorable beginnings should serve to awaken curiosity, not to heighten people's expectations. We are much better off when reality surpasses our expectations, and something turns out better than we thought it would.

The 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.

Even monarchs have need of authors, and fear their pens more than ugly women the painter's pencil.

You should avoid making yourself too clear even in your explanations.