Obstinacy and dogmatism are the surest signs of stupidity. Is there anything more confident, resolute, disdainful, grave and serious than an ass?

I put forward formless and unresolved notions, as do those who publish doubtful questions to debate in the schools, not to establish the truth but to seek it.

Scratching is one of nature's sweetest gratifications, and nearest at hand.

Writing does not cause misery. It is born of misery.

The good, supreme, divine poetry is above the rules and reason. Whoever discerns its beauty with a firm, sedate gaze does not see it, any more than he sees the splendor of a lightning flash. It does not persuade our judgement, it ravishes and overwhelms it.

Is it reasonable that even the arts should take advantage of and profit by our natural stupidity and feebleness of mind?

This very Rome that we behold deserves our love ...: the only common and universal city.