Pure essence, and pure matter, and the two joined into one were shot forth without flaw, like three bright arrows from a three-string bow.

In that part of the book of my memory before the which is little that can be read, there is a rubric, saying, Incipit Vita Nova. Under such rubric I find written many things; and among them the words which I purpose to copy into this little book; if not all of them, at the least their substance.

e quindi uscimmo a riveder le stelle" ("and thence we came forth to see again the stars")

Justice divine has weighed: the doom is clear. All hope renounce, ye lost, who enter here.

At this high moment, ability failed my capacity to describe.

The customs and fashions of men change like leaves on the bough, some of which go and others come.

A mighty flame followeth a tiny spark.