I have raised for myself a monument more durable than brass.

In truth it is best to learn wisdom, and abandoning all nonsense, to leave it to boys to enjoy their season of play and mirth.

To marvel at nothing is just about the one and only thing, Numicius, that can make a man happy and keep him that way.

And take back ill-polished stanzas to the anvil.

Everything, virtue, glory, honor, things human and divine, all are slaves to riches.

Think to yourself that every day is your last; the hour to which you do not look forward will come as a welcome surprise.

Come boy, and pour for me a cup Of old Falernian. Fill it up With wine, strong, sparkling, bright, and clear; Our host decrees no water here. Let dullards drink the Nymph's pale brew, The sluggish thin their blood with dew. For such pale stuff we have no use; For us the purple grape's rich juice. Begone, ye chilling water sprite; Here burning Bacchus rules tonight! Catullus, Selections From Catullus No poems can live long or please that are written by water-drinkers.