wisdom Quotes

In constructing the plot and working it out with the proper diction, the poet should place the scene, as far as possible, before his eyes. In this way, seeing everything with the utmost vividness, as if he were a spectator of the action, he will discover what is in keeping with it, and be most unlikely to overlook inconsistencies.

Character may almost be called the most effective means of persuasion.

Some animals are cunning and evil-disposed, as the fox; others, as the dog, are fierce, friendly, and fawning. Some are gentle and easily tamed, as the elephant; some are susceptible of shame, and watchful, as the goose. Some are jealous and fond of ornament, as the peacock.

It is best to rise from life as from a banquet, neither thirsty nor drunken.

Bring your desires down to your present means. Increase them only when your increased means permit.

The educated differ from the uneducated as much as the living from the dead.

No notice is taken of a little evil, but when it increases it strikes the eye.

No excellent soul is exempt from a mixture of madness.

Probable impossibilities are to be preferred to improbable possibilities.

Law is mind without reason.