You may suppress natural propensities by force, but they will be certain to re-appear.
There is a mean in all things; even virtue itself has stated limits; which not being strictly observed, it ceases to be virtue.
Nonsense, now and then, is pleasant.
Think of the wonders uncorked by wine! It opens secrets, gives heart to our hopes, pushes the cowardly into battle, lifts the load from anxious minds, and evokes talents. Thanks to the bottle’s prompting no one is lost for words, no one who’s cramped by poverty fails to find release.
O citizens, first acquire wealth; you can practice virtue afterward.
Painters and poets alike have always had license to dare anything! We know that, and we both claim and allow to others in their turn this indulgence.
I have completed a monument more lasting than brass.
As shines the moon amid the lesser fires.
To drink away sorrow.
To grow a philosopher’s beard.
I have to submit to much in order to pacify the touchy tribe of poets.
A bad reader soon puts to flight both wise men and fools.
A cup concealed in the dress is rarely honestly carried.
A greater liar than the Parthians.
The horse would plough, the ox would drive the car. No; do the work you know, and tarry where you are.
Superfluous words simply spill out when the mind is already full.
O drink is mighty! secrets it unlocks, Turns hope to fact, sets cowards on to box, Takes burdens from the careworn, finds out parts In stupid folks, and teaches unknown arts. What tongue hangs fire when quickened by the bowl? What wretch so poor but wine expands his soul?
If virtue holds the secret, don’t defer; Be off with pleasure, and be on with her.
Mediocrity in poets has never been tolerated by either men, or gods, or booksellers.
Take too much pleasure in good things, you’ll feel The shock of adverse fortune makes you reel.