Everything has been thought of before, but the problem is to think of it again.
Johann Wolfgang von GoetheSuperstition is the poesy of practical life; hence, a poet is none the worse for being superstitious.
Johann Wolfgang von GoetheI do not now begin, - I still adore Her whom I early cherish'd in my breast; Then once again with prudence dispossess'd, And to whose heart I'm driven back once more. The love of Petrarch, that all-glorious love, Was unrequited, and, alas, full sad.
Johann Wolfgang von GoetheWe are so constituted that we believe the most incredible things; and, once they are engraved upon the memory, woe to him who would endeavor to erase them.
Johann Wolfgang von GoetheHe who wishes to exert a useful influence must be careful to insult nothing. Let him not be troubled by what seems absurd, but concentrate his energies to the creation of what is good. He must not demolish, but build. He must raise temples where mankind may come and partake of the purest pleasure.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe