Poetry, it is often said and loudly so, is life's true mirror. But a monkey looking into a work of literature looks in vain for Socrates.

I'd wish the government took honest people into consideration, it shows enough consideration for scoundrels.

Gratitude is a fickle thing, indeed. A person taking aim presses the weapon to his chest and cheek, but when he hits, he discardsit with indifference.

To test a modest man's modesty do not investigate if he ignores applause, find out if he abides criticism.

Who claims that the heathen's view of the world is incorrect? Life gives you nothing! It is ruled by false gods! Nothing remains true to you but your own self; provided you remain true to it.

The sun of a prince's good graces resembles that in the skies in that it shines most kindly upon the blackest people.

Plato calls complacency the companion of loneliness.