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

The height of strategy, is to attack your opponent's strategy.

Those whose upper and lower ranks have the same desire are victorious.

Rapidity is the essence of war: take advantage of the enemy's unreadiness, make your way by unexpected routes, and attack unguarded spots.

To plan secretly, to move surreptitiously, to foil the enemy's intentions and balk his schemes, so that at last the day may be won without shedding a drop of blood.

The control of a large force is the same principle as the control of a few men: it is merely a question of dividing up their numbers.

Should one ask: 'how do I cope with a well-ordered enemy host about to attack me?' I reply: seize something he cherishes and he will conform to your desires.