I remember, the players have often mentioned it as an honour to Shakespeare, that in his writing (whatsoever he penned) he never plotted out a line. My answer hath been, would he had blotted a thousand.
Ben JonsonMany might go to heaven with half the labour they go to hell, if they would venture their industry the right way.
Ben JonsonIt is an art to have so much judgment as to apparel a lie well, to give it a good dressing.
Ben JonsonCome, my Celia, let us prove, While we can, the sports of love, Time will not be ours for ever, He, at length, our good will sever; Spend not then his gifts in vain: Suns that set may rise again; But if once we lose this light, 'Tis with us perpetual night. Why should we defer our joys? Fame and rumour are but toys.
Ben Jonson