A maxim is a conclusion upon observation of matters of fact, and is merely speculative; a "principle" carries knowledge within itself, and is prospective.
Samuel Taylor ColeridgeThe many men, so beautiful! And they all dead did lie: And a thousand thousand slimy things Lived on; and so did I.
Samuel Taylor ColeridgeAnd though thou notest from thy safe recess old friends burn dim, like lamps in noisome air love them for what they are; nor love them less, because to thee they are not what they were.
Samuel Taylor ColeridgeHow wonderfully beautiful is the delineation of the characters of the three patriarchs in Genesis! To be sure if ever man could, without impropriety, be called, or supposed to be, "the friend of God," Abraham was that man. We are not surprised that Abimelech and Ephron seem to reverence him so profoundly. He was peaceful, because of his conscious relation to God.
Samuel Taylor Coleridge