As a rule, adversity reveals genius and prosperity hides it
Let those who drink not, but austerely dine, dry up in law; the Muses smell of wine.
This was my prayer: an adequate portion of land with a garden and a spring of water and a small wood to complete the picture.
Take subject matter equal to your powers, and ponder long, what your shoulders cannot bear, and what they can.
That I make poetry and give pleasure - if I give pleasure - are because of you.
Riches with their wicked inducements increase; nevertheless, avarice is never satisfied.