To perceive victory when it is known to all is not really skilful. Everyone calls victory in battle good, but it is not really good.

The good fighter is able to secure himself against defeat, but cannot make certain of defeating the enemy.

At first, then, exhibit the coyness of a maiden, until the enemy gives you an opening; afterwards emulate the rapidity of a running hare, and it will be too late for the enemy to oppose you.

To fight and conquer in all our battles is not supreme excellence; supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting.

There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard.

So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak. Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows; the soldier works out his victory in relation to the foe whom he is facing.

When I have won a victory I do not repeat my tactics but respond to circumstances in an infinite variety of ways.