I notice well that one stray step from the habitual path leads irresistibly into a new direction. Life moves forward, it never reverses its course.

What are the characteristics of today's world so that one may recognize it by them?" It pays pensions and borrows money: credit and monuments.

When receiving an order, many servants repeat their "yes" numerous times, especially the lazy ones.

Why I love the ancients so much? Aside from everything else, when I read them, the entire past between them and me unfolds at thesame time. The hearts of how many heroes and poets may have been set on fire by Plutarch's biographies which now inspire me with their own and with borrowed flames!

You say I'm small? I certainly can relate, although it is a matter of perspective. The distance is deceptive, my friend, you standtoo low.

Why do villains have so much influence? Because the honest people are terribly dense.

A wise man can and should stand above his times, not so the poet, but he should be their apex.