While we're talking, envious time is fleeing: pluck the day, put no trust in the future
Poets are never allowed to be mediocre by the gods, by men or by publishers.
Even the good Homer is sometimes caught napping.
Nothing is too high for the daring of mortals: we storm heaven itself in our folly.
Avoid greatness in a cottage there may be more real happiness than kings or their favourites enjoy.
When I caution you against becoming a miser, I do not therefore advise you to become a prodigal or a spendthrift.