Several classical sayings that one likes to repeat had quite a different meaning from the ones later times attributed to them.

Can a sparrow know how a stork feels?

It is said that no man is a hero to his valet. That is because a hero can be recognized only by a hero.

To become aware in time when young of the advantages of age; to maintain the advantages of youth in old age: both are pure fortune.

Lord Byron is only great as a poet; as soon as he reflects he is a child.

Classicism is health, romanticisim is sickness.

What I possess I would gladly retain. Change amuses the mind, yet scarcely profits.