The small force that it takes to launch a boat into the stream should not be confused with the force of the stream that carries it along: but this confusion appears in nearly all biographies.

We criticize a man or a book most sharply when we sketch out their ideal.

Pity is the most pleasant feeling in those who have not much pride and have no prospect of great conquests; for them the easy prey - and that is what all who suffer are - is enchanting.

I desire that your conjectures should not reach beyond your creative will. Could you create a god? Then do not speak to me of any gods.

The people we keep standing in the anteroom of our favor either start fermenting or turn sour.

Was mich nicht zugrunde richtet, macht mich starker.

Men subsequently put whatever is newly learned or experienced to use as a plowshare, perhaps even as a weapon: but women immediately include it among their ornaments.