The aim of the poet is to inform or delight, or to combine together, in what he says, both pleasure and applicability to life. In instructing, be brief in what you say in order that your readers may grasp it quickly and retain it faithfully. Superfluous words simply spill out when the mind is already full. Fiction invented in order to please should remain close to reality.

However rich or elevated, a name less something is always wanting to our imperfect fortune.

Aiming at brevity, I become obscure.

Punishment follows close on crime.

Refrain from asking what going to happen tomorrow, and everyday that fortune grants you, count as gain.

Wine unlocks the breast.

You may drive out nature with a pitchfork, yet she'll be constantly running back.