It is always a sign of an unproductive time when it concerns itself with petty and technical aspects [in philology], and likewiseit is a sign of an unproductive person to pursue such trifles.
Johann Wolfgang von GoetheI had rather be Mercury, the smallest among seven [planets], revolving round the sun, than the first among five [moons] revolving round Saturn.
Johann Wolfgang von GoetheAlas, I have studied philosophy, the law as well as medicine, and to my sorrow, theology; studied them well with ardent zeal, yet here I am, a wretched fool, no wiser than I was before.
Johann Wolfgang von GoetheTalent develops in quiet, alone; character is sharpened in the torrent of the world.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe