The man who masters himself is delivered from the force that binds all creatures.

Self knowledge is best learned not by contemplation, but by action.

Man supposes that he directs his life and governs his actions, when his existence is irretrievably under the control of destiny

I had toward the poetic art a peculiar relation which was only practical after I had cherished in my mind for a long time a subject which possessed me, a model which inspired me, a predecessor who attracted me, until at length, after I had molded it

With little wit and ease to suit them, They whirl in narrow circling trails, Like kittens playing with their tails.

Love grants in a moment what toil can hardly acheive in an age.

To understand one thing well is better than understanding many things by halves.