Socrates thought and so do I that the wisest theory about the gods is no theory at all.

And truly Philosophy is but sophisticated poetry. Whence do those ancient writers derive all their authority but from the poets?

Our wisdom and deliberation for the most part follow the lead of chance.

Almost all the opinions we have are taken on authority and on credit.

So it is with minds. Unless you keep them busy with some definite subject that will bridle and control them, they throw themselves in disorder hither and yon in the vague field of imagination... And there is no mad or idle fancy that they do not bring forth in the agitation.

It is easier to write an indifferent poem than to understand a good one.

All other knowledge is hurtful to him who has not honesty and good-nature