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Power Words
Compiled by Kevin Solway
A considerable number of persons are able to protect themselves against the outbreak of serious neurotic phenomena only through intense work. Karl Abrah
Power tends to corrupt; absolute power corrupts absolutely. Lord Acton
Young men have a passion for regarding their elders as senile. Henry Adams
How can they say my life isn't a success? Have I not for more than sixty years got enough to eat and escaped being eaten? Cindy Adams
We have too many high sounding words, and too few actions that correspond with them. Abigail Adams
I find that a great part of the information I have was acquired by looking up something and finding something else on the way. Franklin P. Adams
Chaos often breeds life, when order breeds habit. Henry B. Adams
A genius is one who can do anything except make a living. Joey Adams
Success has made failures of many men. Cindy Adams
A psychiatrist is a fellow who asks you a lot of expensive questions your wife asks for nothing. Joey Adams
Marriage is give and take. You'd better give it to her or she'll take it anyway. Joey Adams
A teacher affects eternity; no one can tell where his influence stops. Henry Adams
We have not fit men for the times. John Adams
Arguments out of a pretty mouth are unanswerable. Joseph Addison
A woman seldom asks advice before she has bought her wedding clothes. Joseph Addison
Early to bed and early to rise is a bad rule for anyone who wishes to become acquainted with our most prominent and influential people. George Ade
An infallible method of conciliating a tiger is to allow oneself to be devoured. Konrad Adenauer
. . . there is no point in our ancestors speaking to us unless we know how to listen. Mortimer J. Adler
It is easier to fight for one's principles than live up to them. Alfred Adler
Act so as to elicit the best in others and thereby in thyself. Felix Adler
The paper burns, but the words fly away. Ben Joseph Akiba
I have a fine sense of the ridiculous, but no sense of humour. Edward Albee
Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow where they lead. Louisa May Alcott
If at first you don't succeed you're running about average. M.H. Alderson
Often the test of courage is not to die but to live. Conte Vittorio Alfieri
In case you're worried about what's going to become of the younger generation, it's going to grow up and start worrying about the younger generation. Roger Allen
The only thing I regret is that I'm not somebody else. Woody Allen
It's not that I'm afraid to die. I just don't want to be there when it happens. Woody Allen
Most of the time I don't have much fun. The rest of the time I don't have any fun at all. Woody Allen
The structure of the joke is . . . the juxtaposition of the trivial and the mundane . . . We have to reconcile the paradox of it all. The joke mirrors that paradox. Woody Allen
Hanging is too good for a man who makes puns; he should be drawn and quoted. Fred Allen
A celebrity is a person who works hard all his life to become known, then wears dark glasses to avoid being recognized. Fred Allen
Your whole life is a series of effects, having their cause in thought - in your own thought. All conduct is made and molded by thought; all deeds, good or bad, are thoughts made visible. James Allen
A conference is a gathering of important people who singly can do nothing, but together can decide that nothing can be done. Fred Allen
An associate producer is the only guy in Hollywood who will associate with a producer. Fred Allen
Imitation is the sincerest form of television. Fred Allen
Success is like dealing with your kid or teaching your wife to drive. Sooner or later you'll end up in the police station. Fred Allen
I commend you to the goddess of ambition. She teaches the great virtues of labour, aggression and perseverance. John Peter Altgeld
For the skeptic there remains only one consolation: if there should be such a thing as superhuman law, it is administered with subhuman efficiency. Eric Ambler
Nothing is ever accomplished by a reasonable man. American Proverb
Action and faith enslave thought, both of them in order not to be troubled or inconvenienced by reflection, criticism, and doubt. Henri Frederic Amiel
Every nation sincerely desires peace; and all nations pursue courses which if persisted in, must make peace impossible. Sir Norman Angell
Actresses don't have husbands, they have attendants. Margaret Anglin
The great artist and thinker are the simplifiers. Henri Frederic Aniel
A synonym is the word you use when you can't spell the right one and therefore can't find it in the dictionary. Anon
Many people quit looking for work when they find a job. Anon
A sinner can reform, but stupidity is forever. Anon
You never have read anything about the "plans and objectives" of the Apostles. The title of the book is "The Acts of the Apostles". Anon
If Earthlings cannot co-operate with their fellow inhabitants, what makes them think they can co-operate with the inhabitants of other planets. Anon
Among civilized nations reason has always been an occupational hazard. Anon
A reactionary is a man whose political opinions always manage to keep up with yesterday. Anon
Bigamy is having one husband too many. Monogamy is the same. Anon
No productive author can remain a productive author without other productive authors. Anon
College professors are people who get what's left over after the football coach is paid off. Anon
Dancing is a perpendicular expression of a horizontal desire. Anon
Marriage is the price I pay for having hormones. Anon
If you can find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn't lead anywhere. Anon
What stronger breastplate than a heart untainted! Anon
The girl who has half a mind to become an actress doesn't realize that that's what it requires. Anon
Rebellion: A system devised to replace one form of tyranny with another. Anon
The primary requisite for any new tax law is for it to exempt enough voters to win the next election. Anon
What do you do with the problem solvers after the problem is solved? Anon
One real test of will-power is to have the same ailment someone is describing - and not mention it. Anon
Science is a history of superseded theories. Anon
Vanity is the result of a delusion that someone is paying attention. Anon
Wealth is not his that has it, but his who enjoys it. Anon
What most people consider as virtue after the age of 40 is simply a loss of energy. Anon
When a wife reminds a husband that they're not getting any younger, he can assume that she is about to suggest something expensive. Anon
Wise men learn more from fools, than fools do from wise men. Anon
Wise people think all they say; fools say all they think. Anon
You cannot expect a person to see eye to eye with you when you're looking down on him. Anon
On retirement: Twice as much husband on half as much money. Anonymous Wife
Talent is like a faucet; while it is open, one must write. Inspiration is a farce that poets have invented to give themselves importance. Jean Anouilh
Until the day of his death, no man can be sure of his courage. Jean Anouilh
The only question left to be settled now is, are women persons? Susan B. Anthony
That the saints may enjoy their beatitude and the grace of God more abundantly, they are permitted to see the punishment of the damned in hell. Saint Thomas Aquinas
The discontented child cries for toasted snow. Arab Proverb
A man profits more by the sight of an idiot than by the orations of the learned. Arabian Proverb
Judge a man by the reputation of his enemies. Arabian Proverb
You should have seen what a fine-looking man he was before he had all those children. Arapesh tribesman
Human war has been the most successful of all our cultural traditions. Robert Ardrey
A high heart ought to bear calamities and not flee them, since in bearing them appears the grandeur of the mind and in fleeing them the cowardice of the heart. Pietro Aretino
There are some jobs in which it is impossible for a man to be virtuous. Aristotle
Wit is cultured insolence. Aristotle
Men are swayed more by fear than by reverence. Aristotle
The ultimate value of life depends upon awareness, and the power of contemplation rather than upon mere survival. Aristotle
The ideal man bears the accidents of life with dignity and grace, making the best of the circumstances. Aristotle
I have learned only two things are necessary to keep one's wife happy. First, let her think she is having her own way. Second, let her have it. Antony Armstrong-Jones. Lord Snowdon
Racism is the snobbery of the poor. Raymond Aron
Children grow up so fast. Before you know it, the little girl in the frilly, feminine dress is a woman in blue jeans. Edward Asner
It isn't the common man at all who is important; it's the uncommon man. Lady Nancy Astor
The only thing I like about rich people is their money. Lady Astor
There is a good deal of solemn cant about the common interests of capital and labour. As matters stand, their only common interest is that of cutting each other's throat. Brooks Atkinson
Only those in the last stage of disease could believe that children are true judges of character. W.H. Auden
Lord give me chastity - but not yet. Saint Augustine
A lady's imagination is very rapid: it jumps from admiration to love, from love to matrimony in a moment. Jane Austen
Those who do not complain are never pitied. Jane Austen
It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife. Jane Austen
Next to being married, a girl likes to be crossed in love a little now and then. Jane Austen
A prudent question is one-half of wisdom. Francis Bacon
All things are admired either because they are new or because they are great. Francis Bacon
It is as natural to die as to be born, and to a little infant perhaps the one is as painful as the other. Francis Bacon
He that hath wife and children hath given hostages to fortune; for they are impediments to great enterprises, either of virtue or mischief. Francis Bacon
He that will not apply new remedies must expect new evils, for time is the greatest innovator. Francis Bacon
He was reputed one of the wise men that made answer to the question, when a man should marry? "A young man not yet, and elder man not at all". Francis Bacon
Write down the thoughts of the moment. Those that come unsought for are commonly the most valuable. Francis Bacon
Old wood best to burn, old wine to drink, old friends to trust, and old authors to read. Francis Bacon
Prosperity discovers vice, adversity discovers virtue. Francis Bacon
What is it then to have or have not wife But single thraldom, or a double strife? Francis Bacon
Women - one half the human race at least - care fifty times more for a marriage than a ministry. Walter Bagehot
The cure for admiring the House of Lords is to go and look at it. Walter Bagehot
Nothing is more unpleasant than a virtuous person with a mean mind. Walter Bagehot
They who forgive most shall be most forgiven. Philip James Bailey
Punctuality is something that if you have it, there's often no one around to share it with you. Hylda Baker
A teacher who is consistently fair, kindly and honest - whatever his religious convictions - does more moral good in a school than a year of religious assemblies. Balaam
The world is before you, and you need not take it or leave it as it was when you came in. James Baldwin
Virtue, perhaps, is nothing more than politeness of soul. Honore de Balzac
A woman seen by all is a woman wished for; hence the terrible power of actresses. Honore de Balzac
For continued success, study and prepare to accomplish future objectives. Harry F. Banks
Women get more unhappy the more they try to liberate themselves. Brigitte Bardot
In marriage you are chained, it is an obligation; living with someone is a mutual agreement that is renegotiated and re-endorsed every day. Brigitte Bardot
I don't see why people want new plays all the time. What would happen to concerts if people wanted new music all the time? Clive Barnes
I am not young enough to know everything. Sir James M. Barrie
Nothing is really work unless you would rather be doing something else. Sir James M. Barrie
A woman can be anything that the man who loves her would have her to be. Sir James M. Barrie
I've read some of your modern free verse and wonder who set it free. John Barrymore
The trouble with life is that there are so many beautiful women and so little time. John Barrymore
In Genesis it says that it is not good for a man to be alone, but sometimes it's a great relief. John Barrymore
Nothing splendid has ever been achieved except by those who dared believe that something inside them was superior to circumstances. Bruce Barton
The most important thing about getting somewhere is starting right were we are. Bruce Barton
Every man has a right to be wrong in his opinions. But no man has a right to be wrong in his facts. Bernard Baruch
Ten ancient commandments lousing up the fun. Along came prosperity - and then there were none. Gerald Barzan
You don't have to fool all the people all of the time; you just have to fool enough to get elected. Gerald Barzan
Trickle, trickle, Trickle, trickle. Give me a buck And I'll give you a nickel. Gerald Barzan
Teaching is not a lost art, but the regard for it is a lost tradition. Jacques Barzun
One man's remorse is another man's reminiscence. Gerald Horton Bath
The pleasure of being in crowds is a mysterious expression of sensual joy in the multiplication of Number. Baudelaire
It appears on close examination, that work is less boring than amusing oneself. Charles Baudelaire
Marriage always demands the greatest understanding of the art of insincerity possible between two human beings. Vicki Baum
I knew her when she didn't know where her next husband was coming from. Anne Baxter
Never in the history of fashion has so little material been raised so high to reveal so much that needs to be covered so badly. Cecil Beaton. On the miniskirt
When an individual is kept in a situation of inferiority, the fact is that he does become inferior. Simone de Beauvoir
Marriage is traditionally the destiny offered to women by society. Most women are married or have been, or plan to be or suffer from not being. Simone de Beauvoir
To catch a husband is an art; to hold him is a job. Simone de Beauvoir
You can teach a student a lesson for a day; but if you can teach him to learn by creating curiosity, he will continue the learning process as long as he lives. Clay P. Bedford
There are no women composers, never have been and possibly never will be. Sir Thomas Beecham
It is not the going out of port, but the coming in, that determines the success of the voyage. Henry Ward Beecher
Whatever is only almost true is quite false, and among the most dangerous of errors, because being so near truth, it is the more likely to lead astray. Henry Ward Beecher
Do not look back on happiness or dream of it in the future. You are only sure of today; do not let yourself be cheated out of it. Henry Ward Beecher
Civilized people can talk about anything. Clive Bell
The wisest men, in the bulk, are the men who have tilled the earth . . . Hilaire Belloc
A great deal of intelligence can be invested in ignorance when the need for illusion is deep. Saul Bellow
A great many people have . . . asked how I manage to get so much work done and still keep looking so dissipated. Robert Benchley
The wise man thinks once before he speaks twice. Robert Benchley
Great literature must spring from an upheaval in the author's soul. If that upheaval is not present then it must come from the works of any other author which happens to be handy and easily adapted. Robert Benchley
It took me fifteen years to discover I had no talent for writing, but I couldn't give it up because by that time I was too famous. Robert Benchley
If we justify war it is because all peoples always justify the traits of which they find themselves possessed. Ruth Benedict
Grant us brotherhood, not only for this day, but for all our years - a brotherhood not of words, but of acts and deeds. Stephen Vincent Benet
Perspective, I soon realized, was a fine commodity, but utterly useless when I was in the thick of things. Ingrid Bengis
They are the most embarrassed people in this world, the English. Alan Bennett
Taxes are going up so fast that government is likely to price itself right out of the market. Dan Bennett
I believe in instinct, not in reason. When reason is right, nine times out of ten it is impotent, and when it prevails, nine times out of ten it is wrong. A.C. Benson
If one truly has lost hope, one would not be on hand to say so. Eric Bentley
The physical union of the sexes . . . only intensifies man's sense of solitude. Nicolas Berdyaev
Governments last as long as the under-taxed can defend themselves against the over-taxed. Bernard Berenson
The toughest thing about success is that you've got to keep on being a success. Irving Berlin
The wish to pray is a prayer in itself. George Bernanos
Art is I; science is we. Claude Bernard
Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Bible
The thing that hath been; it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun. Bible (Ecclesiastes)
It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house. Bible. Proverbs
Nepotism: Appointing your grandmother to office for the good of the party. Ambrose Bierce
Clergyman: A man who undertakes the management of our spiritual affairs as a method of bettering his temporal ones. Ambrose Bierce
Bore: A person who talks when you wish him to listen. Ambrose Bierce
Plan: To bother about the best method of accomplishing an accidental result. Ambrose Bierce
Brain: The apparatus with which we think we think. Ambrose Bierce
Politics: A strife of interests masquerading as a contest of principles. The conduct of public affairs for private advantage. Ambrose Bierce
Saint: A dead sinner revised and edited. Ambrose Bierce
President : The leading figure in a small group of men of whom - and of whom only - it is positively known that immense numbers of their countrymen did not want any of them for President. Ambrose Bierce
Diagnosis: The physician's art of determining the condition of the patient's purse in order to find out how sick to make him. Ambrose Bierce
Prison: A place of punishments, and rewards. Ambrose Bierce
Egotist: A person of low taste, more interested in himself than in me. Ambrose Bierce
Success is the one unpardonable sin against one's fellows. Ambrose Bierce
Epitaph: A monumental inscription designed to remind the deceased of what he might have been if he had had the will and opportunity. Ambrose Bierce
Prophecy: The art and practice of selling one's credibility for future delivery. Ambrose Bierce
Push: One of the two things mainly conducive to success, especially in politics. The other is pull. Ambrose Bierce
Quotation: The act of repeating erroneously the words of another. Ambrose Bierce
Redemption is the fundamental mystery of our holy religion, and who believeth in it shall not perish, but have everlasting life in which to try to understand it. Ambrose Bierce
Repentance: The faithful attendant and follower of Punishment. It is usually manifest in a degree of reformation that is not inconsistent with continuity of sin. Ambrose Bierce
Resign: To renounce an advantage for a greater advantage. Ambrose Bierce
Restitution: The founding or endowing of universities and public libraries by gift or bequest. Ambrose Bierce
Revolution: In politics, an abrupt change in the form of misgovernment. Ambrose Bierce
Year: A period of three hundred and sixty-five disappointments. Ambrose Bierce
Acquaintance: A person whom we know well enough to borrow from but not well enough to lend to. Ambrose Bierce
Remember the poor - it costs nothing. Josh Billings
Never teach your child to be cunning or you may be certain you will be one of the very first victims of his shrewdness. Josh Billings
If a man is right he can't be too radical; if he is wrong, he can't be too conservative. Josh Billings
Woman's influence is powerful, especially when she wants something. Josh Billings
Confidence is simply that quiet assured feeling you have before you fall flat on your face. Dr. L. Binder. (American historian)
He who makes his law a curse, By his own law shall surely die. William Blake
No bird soars too high, if he soars with his own wings. William Blake
A Robin Red breast in a cage Puts all Heaven in a rage. William Blake
Learn to reason forward and backward on both sides of a question. Thomas Blandi
Sow an act and you reap a habit. George D. Boardman
The secret of power is the knowledge that others are more cowardly than you are. Ludwig Boerne
An expert is a man who has made all the mistakes which can be made, in a narrow field. Niels Bohr. Danish physicist
No one who cannot halt at self-imposed boundaries could ever write. Nicolas Boileau
Motherhood is the biggest on-the-job training scheme in the world. Erma Bombeck
An actor is a sculptor who carves in snow. Edwin Booth
Most educators would continue to lecture on navigation while the ship is going down. James H. Boren
What a man knows should find its expression in what he does; the value of superior knowledge is chiefly in that it leads to a performing manhood. Christian N. Bovee
That is partly why women marry - to keep up the fiction of being in the hub of things. Elizabeth Bowen
Statistics are for losers. Scotty Bowman
A French woman, when double-crossed, will kill her rival; the Italian woman would rather kill her deceitful lover; the English woman simply breaks off relations - but they all will console themselves with another man. Charles Boyer
Why does a slight tax increase cost you two hundred dollars and a substantial tax cut save you thirty cents? Peg Bracken
The right to be let alone is the most comprehensive of rights and the right most valued in civilized man. Justice Louis D. Brandeis
We can have democracy in this country or we can have great wealth concentrated in the hands of a few, but we can't have both. Justice Louis D. Brandels
An actor's a guy who if you ain't talking about him, he ain't listening. Marlon Brando
There is just one thing I can promise you about the outerspace programme: Your tax dollar will go farther. Wernher von Braun
Men always fall for frigid women because they put on the best show. Fanny Brice
For of course the true meaning of a term is to be found by observing what a man does with it, not by what he says about it. P.W. Bridgman
Get away from the crowd when you can. Keep yourself to yourself, if only for a few hours daily. Arthur Brisbane
For some reason, we see divorce as a signal of failure despite the fact that each of us has a right and an obligation to rectify any other mistake we make in life. Dr. Joyce Brothers
My riches consist not in the extent of my possessions but in the fewness of my wants. J. Brotherton
Why in the world are salaries higher for administrators when the basic mission is teaching. Governor Jerry Brown
It may be laid down as an axiom that a man who does not live the life of the mob will not think its thought either. Lewis Browne
Since when was genius found respectable? Elizabeth Barrett Browning
The great mind knows the power of gentleness, only tries force because persuasion fails. Robert Browning
When the fight begins within himself, a man's worth something. Robert Browning
It is a great misfortune neither to have enough wit to talk well nor enough judgment to be silent. Jean de La Brupere
A strict observer is one who would be an atheist under an atheistic king. Jean De La Bruyere
There are few wives so perfect as not to give their husbands at least once a day good reason to repent of ever having married, or at least of envying those who are unmarried. Jean de la Bruyere
Liberality lies less in giving liberally than in the timeliness of the gift. Jean De La Bruyere
There are only two ways of getting on in this world: by one's own industry, or by the weakness of others. Jean de La Bruyere
This great misfortune - to be incapable of solitude. Jean de la Bruyere
The majority of men devote the greater part of their lives to making their remaining years unhappy. Jean De La Bruyere
There are only three events in a man's life; birth, life, and death; he is not conscious of being born, he dies in pain, and he forgets to live. Jean De La Bruyere
There are some who speak one moment before they think. Jean De La Bruyere
Nothing's too good for winners . . . but take defeat with dignity while planning to come back. Paul Bryant
I explained to him I had simple tastes and didn't want anything ostentatious, no matter what it cost me. Art Buchwald
Through zeal, knowledge is gotten, through lack of zeal, knowledge is lost; let a man who knows this double path of gain and loss thus place himself in that knowledge may grow. Buddha
The no-mind not-thinks no-thoughts about no-things. Buddha
Style is the man himself. Georges de Buffon
Beneath the rule of men entirely great, The pen is mightier than the sword. Edward Bulwer-Lytton
Ambition has no rest. E.R. Bulwer-Lytton
Life would be tolerably agreeable if it were not for its amusements. E.R. Bulwer-Lytton
If you wish to be loved, show more of your faults than your virtues. E.R. Bulwer-Lytton
Nothing can constitute good breeding which has not good nature for its foundation. E.R. Bulwer-Lytton
A reform is a correction of abuses; a revolution is a transfer of power. E.R. Bulwer-Lytton
There are no warlike peoples - just warlike leaders. Ralph Bunche
The people no longer believe in principles, but will probably periodically believe in saviours. Jacob Burckhardt
A woman is but an animal, and an animal not of the highest order. Edmund Burke
Adversity is a severe instructor, set over us by one who knows us better than we do ourselves, as he loves us better too. He that wrestles with us strengthens our nerves and sharpens our skill. Edmund Burke
A nation without the means of reform is without means of survival. Edmund Burke
The arrogance of age must submit to be taught by youth. Edmund Burke
Superstition is a religion of feeble minds. Edmund Burke
The march of the human mind is slow. Edmund Burke
Pleasures are like poppies spread: You seize the flower, its bloom is shed; Or like the snow falls in the river: A moment white - then melts forever. Robert Burns
Never do today what you can do tomorrow. Something may occur to make you regret your premature action. Aaron Burr
Few persons realize how much of their happiness, such as it is, is dependent upon their work, upon the fact that they are kept busy and not left to feed upon themselves. John Burroughs
Diogenes struck the father when the son swore. Robert Burton
War, like any other racket, pays high dividends to the very few. The cost of operations is always transferred to the people who do not profit. General Smedley Butler
Those that fly may fight again, Which we can never do that's slain. Hence timely running's no mean part Of conduct, in the martial art. Samuel Butler
A sense of humour keen enough to show a man his own absurdities will keep him from the commission of all sins, or nearly all, save those that are worth committing. Samuel Butler
There are the few who make things happen; the many more who watch things happen and the overwhelming majority who have no notion of what happens. Nicholas Murray Butler
Oaths are but words, and words are but wind. Samuel Butler
All progress is based upon a universal innate desire on the part of every organism to live beyond its income. Samuel Butler
Every new idea has something of the pain and peril of childbirth about it. Samuel Butler
Friendship is like money, easier made than kept. Samuel Butler
The souls of women are so small, That some believe they've none at all. Samuel Butler
No gold, no Holy Ghost. Samuel Butler
Brigands require your money or your life. Women require both. Samuel Butler
An expert is one who knows more and more about less and less. Nicholas Murray Butler. American educator
Too many people are thinking of security instead of opportunity. They seem more afraid of life than death. James F. Byrnes
A would-be satirist, a hired buffoon, A monthly scribbler of some low lampoon, Condemn'd to drudge, the meanest of the mean, And furbish falsehoods for a magazine. Lord Byron
Father of Light, great God Heaven! Hear'st thou the accents of despair? Can guilt like man's be e'er forgiven? Can vice atone for crimes by prayer? Lord Byron
Though women are angels, yet wedlock's the devil. Lord Byron
Shut up the world at large, let Bedlam out; And you will be perhaps surprised to find All things pursue exactly the same route. Lord Byron
A man begins cutting his wisdom teeth the first time he bites off more than he can chew. Herb Caen
There is only one trait that marks the writer. He is always watching. It's a kind of trick of mind and he is born with it. Morley Callaghan
Always the gods give small things to the small. Callimachus
An honest politician is one who when he's bought stays bought. Simon Cameron
I don't understand why girls who wear wigs, false eyelashes, and falsies always complain that there are no REAL men anymore. Glen Campbell
Marriage is the deep, deep peace of the double bed after the hurly-burly of the chaise-longue. Mrs. Campbell. British actress
He who despairs over an event is a coward, but he who holds hopes for the human condition is a fool. Albert Camus
Every man on the foundation of his own sufferings and joys, builds for all. Albert Camus
Every act of rebelling expresses a nostalgia for innocence. Albert Camus
There is only one truly philosophical problem, and that is suicide. Albert Camus
Those who write clearly have readers; those who write obscurely have commentators. Albert Camus
Arrogance, pedantry, and dogmatism are the occupational diseases of those who spend their lives directing the intellects of the young. Henry S. Canby
But of all plagues, good Heaven, they wrath can send, Save me, oh, save me, from the candid friend. George Canning
I called the New World into existence to redress the balance of the Old. George Canning
Truth or tact? You have to choose. Most times they are not compatible. Eddie Cantor
It takes twenty years to make an overnight success. Eddie Cantor
Words fascinate me. They always have. For me, browsing in a dictionary is like being turned loose in a bank. Eddie Cantor
Every age is modern to those who are living in it. Justice Benjamin N. Cardozo
A well-written Life is almost as rare as a well-spent one. Thomas Carlyle
Adversity is sometimes hard upon a man, but for the one man who can stand prosperity there are a hundred who will stand adversity. Thomas Carlyle
I do not believe in the collective wisdom of individual ignorance. Thomas Carlyle
The universe is but one vast Symbol of God. Thomas Carlyle
Everywhere in life, the true question is not what we gain, but what we do. Thomas Carlyle
France was a long despotism tempered by epigrams. Thomas Carlyle
Genius (which means transcendent capacity of taking trouble, first of all). Thomas Carlyle
History is the essence of innumerable biographies. Thomas Carlyle
Nature admits no lie. Thomas Carlyle
No great man lives in vain. The history of the world is but the biography of great men. Thomas Carlyle
No man who has once heartily and wholly laughed can be altogether irreclaimably bad. Thomas Carlyle
The true University of these days is a collection of books. Thomas Carlyle
As I grow older, I pay less attention to what men say. I just watch what they do. Andrew Carnegie
Remember happiness doesn't depend upon who you are or what you have; it depends solely upon what you think. Dale Carnegie
As to virtue . . . it is an act of the will, a habit which increases the quantity, intensity and quality of life. It builds up, strengthens and vivifies personality. Alexis Carrel
Man cannot remake himself without suffering. For he is both the marble and the sculptor. Alexis Carrel
Dressing with style is akin to issuing a manifesto; dressing fashionably is like signing a petition. Quentin Crisp and Donald Carroll
Everything's got a moral, if only you can find it. Lewis Carroll
When I use a word, it means just what I choose it to mean - neither more nor less. Lewis Carroll
Take care of the sense and the sounds will take care of themselves. Lewis Carroll
In time of war the first casualty is truth. Boake Carter
I'd rather eat shit than wear a suit. Billy Carter
Nothing is more beautiful than the loveliness of the woods before sunrise. George Washington Carver
Medicine in the hands of a fool is poison, just as poison becomes medicine in the hands of the wise. Giacomo Casanova
I like trees because they seem more resigned to the way they have to live than other things do. Willa Cather
The best way to keep good acts in memory is to refresh them with new. Cato
It is a difficult matter to argue with the belly since it has no ears. Cato
I realize that patriotism is not enough. I must have no hatred or bitterness towards anyone. Edith Cavell
A private sin is not so prejudicial in the world as a public indecency. Miguel de Cervantes
Valour lies just half way between rashness and cowheartedness. M.de Cervantes
Good actions ennoble us, and we are sons of our own deeds. M.de Cervantes
Tell me what company thou keepest, and I'll tell thee what thou art. M.de Cervantes
A proverb is a short sentence based on long experience. M.de Cervantes
Many men and women enjoy popular esteem not because they are known, but because they are not known. Sebastian Chamfort
Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars. E.H. Chapin
Humility is not a weak and timid quality, it must be carefully distinguished from a groveling spirit. There is such a thing as an honest pride and self-respect. Edwin H. Chapin
I remain just one thing, and one only - and that is a clown. It places me on a far higher plane than any politician. Charles Chaplin
Of Presbyterianism: Not a religion for gentlemen. Charles II
I speak Spanish to God, Italian to women, French to men, and German to my horse. Charles V
Traditional nationalism cannot survive the fissioning of the atom. One world nor none. Stuart Chase
In some cases non-violence requires more militancy than violence. Cesar Chavez
Life does not agree with philosophy: There is no happiness that is not idleness, and only what is useless is pleasurable. Chekhov
The passion of ambition is the same in a courtier, a soldier, or an ecclesiastic; but, from their different educations and habits, they will take very different methods to gratify it. Lord Chesterfield
Since attaining the full use of my reason no one has every heard me laugh. Earl of Chesterfield
He makes people pleased with him by making them first pleased with themselves. Lord Chesterfield
It is not to be imagined by how many different ways vanity defeats its own purpose. Lord Chesterfield
The knowledge of the world is only to be acquired in the world, and not in a closet. Lord Chesterfield
Young men are apt to think themselves wise enough, as drunken men are apt to think themselves sober enough. Lord Chesterfield
A good novel tells us the truth about its hero; but a bad novel tells us the truth about its author. Gilbert Keith Chesterton
A puritan is a person who pours righteous indignation into the wrong things. G.K. Chesterton
Free verse is like free love; it is a contradiction in terms. G.K. Chesterton
Psychoanalysis is confession without absolution. G.K. Chesterton
All conservatism is based upon the idea that if you leave things alone you leave them as they are. But you do not. If you leave a thing alone you leave it to a torrent of change. G.K. Chesterton
The full potentialities of human fury cannot be reached until a friend of both parties tactfully intervenes. G.K. Chesterton
Why shouldn't we quarrel about a word? What is the good of words if they aren't important enough to quarrel over? Why do we choose one word more than another if there isn't any difference between them? G.K. Chesterton
As enunciated today, "progress" is simply a comparative of which we have not settled the superlative. G.K. Chesterton
There is a great man who makes every man feel small. But the real great man is the man who makes every man feel great. G.K. Chesterton
Carlyle said that men were mostly fools. Christianity, with a surer and more reverend realism, says that they are all fools. G.K. Chesterton
Variability is one of the virtues of a woman. It avoids the crude requirement of polygamy. So long as you have one good wife you are sure to have a spiritual harem. G.K. Chesterton
Compromise used to mean that half a loaf was better than no bread. Among modern statesmen it really seems to mean that half a loaf is better than a whole loaf. G.K. Chesterton
Mr. Shaw is (I suspect) the only man on earth who has never written any poetry. G.K. Chesterton
New roads: new ruts. G.K. Chesterton
The artistic temperament is a disease that afflicts amateurs. G.K. Chesterton
The madman is not the man who has lost his reason. The madman is the man who has lost everything except his reason. G.K. Chesterton
The modern world . . . has no notion except that of simplifying something by destroying nearly everything. G.K. Chesterton
The rich are the scum of the earth in every country. G.K. Chesterton
The word "orthodoxy" not only no longer means being right; it practically means being wrong. G.K. Chesterton
There is no such thing on earth as an uninteresting subject; the only thing that can exist is an uninterested person. G.K. Chesterton
Only the brave deserve the fair, but only rich, fat, cowardly merchants can afford them. Chinese Proverb
Settle one difficulty and you keep hundreds away. Chinese Proverb
Courage is the first of human qualities because it is the quality which guarantees all others. Sir Winston Churchill
In wartime, truth is so precious that she should always be attended by a bodyguard of lies. Sir Winston Churchill
Difficulties mastered are opportunities won. Sir Winston Churchill
True genius resides in the capacity for evaluation of uncertain, hazardous, and conflicting information. Sir Winston Churchill
Men will forgive a man anything except bad prose. Sir Winston Churchill
Perfectionism is spelled "Paralysis." Sir Winston Churchill
Without victory there is no survival! Sir Winston Churchill
I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat. Sir Winston Churchill
I said that the world must be made safe for at least fifty years. If it was only for fifteen to twenty years then we should have betrayed our soldiers. Sir Winston Churchill
Of Mr. Baldwin: It is a fine thing to be honest but it is also very important to be right. Sir Winston Churchill
Of the British: They are the only people who like to be told how bad things are - who like to be told the worst. Sir Winston Churchill
Perhaps it is better to be irresponsible and right than to be responsible and wrong. Sir Winston Churchill
Those who can win a war well can rarely make a good peace and those who could make a good peace would never have won the war. Sir Winston Churchill
Victory at all costs, victory in spite of all terror, victory however long and hard the road may be; for without victory there is no survival. Sir Winston Churchill
One had as good to be out of the world, as out of the fashion. Colley Cibber
We are in bondage to the law in order that we may be free. Cicero
The harvest of old age is the memory and rich store of blessings laid up earlier in life. Cicero
The good of the people is the chief law. Marcus Tullius Cicero
There is nothing so absurd but some philosopher has said it. Marcus Tullius Cicero
When you are aspiring to the highest place, it is honourable to reach the second or even the third rank. Cicero
Confidence is that feeling by which the mind embarks on great and honourable courses with a sure hope and trust in itself. Cicero
Believe one who knows: you will find something greater in woods than in books. Trees and stones will teach you that which you can never learn from masters. St. Bernard of Clairvaux
Are bombs the only way of setting fire to the spirit of a people? Is the human will as inert as the past two worldwide wars would indicate? Gregory Clark
Among the porcupines, rape is unknown. Gregory Clark
He is next to the gods whom reason impels. Claudian
I had rather be right than be President. Henry Clay
War is too important to be left to the generals. Georges Clemenceau
Unswerving loyalty to duty, constant devotion to truth, and a clear conscience will overcome every discouragement and surely lead the way to usefulness and high achievement. Grover Cleveland
'Tis better to have fought and lost, Than never to have fought at all. Arthur Hugh Clough
To be poor and independent is very nearly an impossibility. William Cobbett
To watch the progress of the crops is by no means unentertaining to any rational creature. William Cobbett
The joy of the young is to disobey - but the trouble is, there are no longer any orders. Jean Cocteau
Tact consists in knowing how far to go too far. Jean Cocteau
The purity of a revolution can last a fortnight. Jean Cocteau
Most of us hate to see a poor loser - or a rich winner. Harold Coffin
Science is a flickering light in our darkness, it is but the only one we have and woe to him who would put it out. Morris Cohen
A man's house is his castle. Sir Edward Coke
A "New Thinker" when studied closely, is merely a man who does not know what other people have thought. Frank Moore Colby
No mind is thoroughly well organized that is deficient in a sense of humour. Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Oh sleep! it is a gentle thing, Beloved from pole to pole. Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Common sense in an uncommon degree is what the world calls wisdom. Samuel Taylor Coleridge
I have seen gross intolerance shown in support of tolerance. Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Often do the spirits of great events stride on before the events And in today already walks tomorrow. Samuel Taylor Coleridge
What comes from the heart, goes to the heart. Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Don't ever wear artistic jewellery; it wrecks a woman's reputation. S.G. Colette
A man is as old as he's feeling, a woman as old as she looks. Mortimer Collins
Examinations are formidable even to the best prepared, for the greatest fool may ask more than the wisest man can answer. Charles Caleb Colton
Tyrants have not yet discovered any chains that can fetter the mind. Charles Caleb Colton
Many speak the truth when they say that they despise riches, but they mean the riches possessed by other men. Charles Caleb Colton
Imitation is the sincerest of flattery. Charles Caleb Colton
If the cause be good, the most violent attack of its enemies will not injure it so much as an injudicious defense of it by its friends. Charles Caleb Colton
Men will wrangle for religion; write for it; fight for it; anything but - live for it. Charles Caleb Colton
In great cities men are more callous both to the happiness and the misery of others . . . for they are constantly in the habit of seeing both extremes. Charles Caleb Colton
If you have nothing to say, say nothing. Charles Caleb Colton
When in reading we meet with any maxim that may be of use, we should take it for our own, and make an immediate application of it, as we would of the advice of a friend whom we have purposely consulted. Charles Caleb Colton
Slogans are both exciting and comforting, but they are also powerful opiates for the conscience. James Bryant Conant
Each honest calling, each walk of life, has its own elite, its own aristocracy based upon excellence of performance. J.B. Conant
The job of satire is to frighten and enlighten. Richard Condon
Fine words and an insinuating appearance are seldom associated with true virtue. Confucius
It is not truth that makes man great, but man who makes truth great. Confucius
Have no friends not equal to yourself. Confucius
Learning without thought is labour lost; thought without learning is perilous. Confucius
Men's natures are alike; it is their habits that carry them far apart. Confucius
Recompense injury with justice, and recompense kindness with kindness. Confucius
Study the past, if you would divine the future. Confucius
The people may be made to follow a course of action, but they may not be made to understand it. Confucius
The superior man is distressed by his want of ability. Confucius
The superior man is satisfied and composed; the mean man is always full of distress. Confucius
To be able to practise five things everywhere under heaven constitutes perfect virtue . . . gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness. Confucius
When you have faults, do not fear to abandon them. Confucius
An author arrives at a good style when his language performs what is required of it without shyness. Cyril Connolly
As repressed sadists are supposed to become policemen or butchers so those with irrational fear of life become publishers. Cyril Connolly
Better to write for yourself and have no public, than write for the public and have no self. Cyril Connolly
Boys do not grow up gradually. They move forward in spurts like the hands of clocks in railway stations. Cyril Connolly
I have always disliked myself at any given moment; the total of such moments is my life. Cyril Connolly
Literature is the art of writing something that will be read twice; journalism what will be grasped at once. Cyril Connolly
The ape-like virtues without which no one can enjoy a public school. Cyril Connolly
The man who is master of his passions is Reason's slave. Cyril Connolly
There is no more sombre enemy of good art than the pram in the hall. Cyril Connolly
Whom the gods wish to destroy they first call promising. Cyril Connolly
The belief in a supernatural source of evil is not necessary; men alone are quite capable of every wickedness. Joseph Conrad
The lust for comfort, that stealthy thing that enters the house as a guest and then becomes a host and then a master. Joseph Conrad
You shall judge of a man by his foes as well as by his friends. Joseph Conrad
You have got to do something about it to make it count. Carl C. Conway
I had ambition not only to go farther than any man had ever been before, but as far as it was possible for a man to go. Captain James Cook
Satisfaction does not come from indulgence or satiety; it comes from achievement. Calvin Coolidge
What we need in appointive positions are men of knowledge and experience with sufficient character to resist temptations. Calvin Coolidge
Prosperity is only an instrument to be used, not a deity to be worshipped. Calvin Coolidge
Fraud and falsehood only dread examination. Truth invites it. Thomas Cooper
A good memory is needed after one has lied. Pierre Corneille
Do your duty and leave the rest to the Gods. Pierre Corneille
The manner of giving is worth more than the gift. Pierre Corneille
We triumph without glory when we conquer without danger. Pierre Corneille
No man is a hero to his valet. Anne-Marie Bigot de Cornuel
The best things in life must come by effort from within and not by gifts from the outside. Fred Corson
An intimate truth is also a universal truth. John Cournos
Many of the same people who have no difficulty in finding extenuating circumstances to account for the violence of the hardhats, find it impossible to accept any explanations for the violence of the students. Norman Cousins
It is nonsense to say there is not enough time to be fully informed . . . Time given to thought is the greatest timesaver of all. Norman Cousins
People who develop the habit of thinking of themselves as world citizens are fulfilling the first requirement of sanity in our time. Norman Cousins
The message from the moon which we have flashed to the far corners of this planet is that no problem need any longer be considered insoluble. Norman Cousins
The only security for the American people today, or for any people, is to be found through the control of force rather than the pursuit of force. Norman Cousins
The possibility of war increases in direct proportion to the effectiveness of the instruments of war. Norman Cousins
Where is the indignation about the fact that the United States and Soviet Union have accumulated thirty thousand pounds of destructive force for every human being in the world? Norman Cousins
Never mind, dear, we're all made the same, though some more than others. Sir Noel Coward
Strange how potent cheap music is. Sir Noel Coward
The Stately Homes of England How beautiful they stand, To prove the upper classes Have still the upper hand. Sir Noel Coward
Life is an incurable disease. Abraham Cowley
God made the country, and man made the town. William Cowper
Farce is the essential theatre. Farce refined becomes high comedy: farce brutalized becomes tragedy. Sir Edward Gordon Craig
There is no future in any job. The future lies in the man who holds the job. Dr. George Crane
The Golden Rule is of no use to you whatever, unless you realize that it is your move. Frank Crane
A man said to the universe, "Sir, I exist." "However," replied the universe, "the fact has not created in me a sense of obligation." Stephen Crane
No people do so much harm as those who go about doing good. Mandell Creighton
Fashion is what you adopt when you don't know who you are. Quentin Crisp
Women are the only oppressed group in our society that lives in intimate association with our oppressors. Evelyn Cunningham
The condition upon which God hath given liberty to man is eternal vigilance. John Philpot Curran
Golf is like a love affair: if you don't take it seriously, it's no fun; if you do take it seriously, it breaks your heart. Arnold Daly
Any man with a fine shock of hair, a good set of teeth, and a bewitching smile can park his brains, if he has any, and run for public office. Frank Dane
Females are not the only species who prostitute themselves for money; they are the only ones that are honest about it. Frank Dane
Everything is organized today. I called my Congressman a jack-ass, and I heard from the jack-ass lobby. Frank Dane
If the real estate gang could, they'd raise the rents in the graveyards. Frank Dane
Posterity is that which is denied an author until he is in the public domain. Frank Dane
I get no respect. The way my luck is running, if I was a politician I'd be honest. Rodney Dangerfield
Defeat never comes to a man until he admits it. Josephus Daniels
Give to a pig when it grunts and a child when it cries, and you will have a fine pig and a bad child. Danish proverb
In revolutions authority remains with the greatest scoundrels. Georges Jacques Danton
History repeats itself, that's one of the things that's wrong with history. Clarence Darrow
When I was a boy I was told that anyone could be President. I'm beginning to believe it. Clarence Darrow
Man with all his noble qualities . . . still bears in his bodily frame the indelible stamp of his lowly origin. Charles Robert Darwin
A man who dares to waste one hour of time has not discovered the value of life. Charles Darwin
What is this life if, full of care, We have no time to stand and stare. William Henry Davies
You can always borrow a corkscrew from a member of the Protestant Episcopal Church. Chauncey Depew
If you would be a real seeker after truth, it is necessary that at least once in your life you doubt, as far as possible, all things. Descartes
Nothing deflates so fast as a punctured reputation. Thomas R. Dewar
It is a melancholy truth that even great men have their poor relations. Charles Dickens
Of Course - I prayed - And did God Care? Emily Dickinson
Tell the truth But tell it slant. Emily Dickinson
He was one of those men who think that the world can be saved by writing a pamphlet. Benjamin Disraeli (Earl of Beaconsfield)
It is well known what a middle man is: he is a man who bamboozles one party and plunders the other. B. Disraeli
A precedent embalms a principle. B. Disraeli
The wisdom of the wise and the experience of the ages are perpetuated by quotations. B. Disraeli
A university should be a place of light, of liberty and of learning. B. Disraeli
What we anticipate seldom occurs, what we least expected generally happens. B. Disraeli
The world is weary of statesmen whom democracy has degraded into politicians. B. Disraeli
The world is governed by very different personages from what is imagined by those who are not behind the scenes. B. Disraeli
There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics. B. Disraeli
"My idea of an agreeable person," said Hugo Bohun, "is a person who agrees with me." Benjamin Disraeli
Every woman should marry - and no man. Benjamin Disraeli
When I want to read a novel I write one. Benjamin Disraeli
Youth is a blunder; manhood a struggle; old age a regret. Benjamin Disraeli
Youth is the trustee of posterity. Benjamin Disraeli
To understand any living thing, you must, so to say, creep within and feel the beating of its heart. W. MacNeile Dixon
It is difficult to be humble. Even if you aim at humility, there is no guarantee that when you have attained the state you will not be proud of the feat. Bonamy Dobree
It's an old adage that the way to be safe is never to be secure. Each one of us requires the spur of insecurity to force us to do our best. Harold W. Dodds
I got disappointed in human nature as well and gave it up because I found it too much like my own. James Patrick Donleavy
Any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in Mankind; And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee. John Donne
Love built on beauty, soon as beauty, dies. John Donne
No man is an Island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the Continent, a part of the main. John Donne
The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery. Mark Van Doren
A just cause is not ruined by a few mistakes. Dostoevsky
If you want to see what children can do, you must stop giving them things. Norman Douglas
Depend upon it, there is nothing so unnatural as the commonplace. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
The lowest and vilest alleys of London do not present a more dreadful record of sin than does the smiling and beautiful countryside. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
It has long been an axiom of mine that the little things are infinitely the most important. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
It is an old maxim of mine that when you have excluded the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Don't put the fate of your business in the delusions of economists. Peter Drucker
In all recorded history there has not been one economist who has had to worry about where the next meal would come from. Peter Drucker
Property has its duties as well as its rights. Thomas Drummond
Unless a man undertakes more than he possibly can do, he will never do all he can do. Henry Drummond
He who will not reason, is a bigot; he who cannot is a fool; and he who dares not is a slave. Sir William Drummond
Beware the fury of a patient man. John Dryden
When beauty fires the blood, how love exalts the mind! J. Dryden
Even victors are by victory undone. J. Dryden
But far too numerous was the herd of such, who think too little, and who talk too much. J. Dryden
Virtue is its own reward. J. Dryden
Did wisely from expensive sins refrain, and never broke the sabbath, but for gain. J. Dryden
For politicians neither love nor hate. J. Dryden
Great wits are sure to madness allied and thin partitions do their bounds divide. J. Dryden
Put even the plainest woman into a beautiful dress and unconsciously she will try to live up to it. Lady Lucie Duff-Gordon
Social progress does not have to be bought at the price of individual freedom. John Foster Dulles
The world will never have lasting peace so long as men reserve for war the finest human qualities. John Foster Dulles
It is often woman who inspires us with the great things that she will prevent us from accomplishing. Alexandre Dumas
One of the strangest things about life is that the poor, who need the money the most, are the ones that never have it. Finley Peter Dunne
In those days, the (Roman) government gave them bread and circuses. Today we give them bread and elections, but it is just a change in the style of a periodical amusement. Will Durant
If our economy of freedom fails to distribute wealth as ably as it has created it, the road to dictatorship will be open to any man who can persuasively promise security to all. Will & Ariel Durant
Nothing is clearer in history than the adoption by successful rebels of the methods they were accustomed to condemn in the forces they deposed. Will & Ariel Durant
Religions are born and may die, but superstition is immortal. Only the fortunate can take life without mythology. Will & Ariel Durant
We . . . repeatedly enlarge our instrumentalities without improving our purpose. Will Durant
A poet in history is divine, but a poet in the next room is a joke. Max Eastman
We are not at war with Egypt. We are in an armed conflict. Sir Anthony Eden
Restlessness is discontent - and discontent is the first necessity of progress. Show me a thoroughly satisfied man - and I will show you a failure. Thomas Alva Edison
The best thinking has been done in solitude. The worst has been done in turmoil. Thomas A. Edison
Genius is one per cent inspiration and ninety-nine per cent perspiration. Thomas A. Edison
So far as religion of the day is concerned, it is a damned fake . . . Religion is all bunk. Thomas A. Edison
There is no expedient to which a man will not go to avoid the real labour of thinking. Thomas A. Edison
Successful teachers are effective in spite of the psychological theories they suffer under. Educational Proverb
I never think of the future. It comes soon enough. Albert Einstein
Don't have any children. It makes divorce so much more complicated. Albert Einstein
My political ideal is democracy. Everyone should be respected as an individual, but no one idolized. Albert Einstein
The process of scientific discovery is, in effect, a continual flight from wonder. Albert Einstein
Well, it's hard for a mere man to believe that woman doesn't have equal rights. Dwight D. Eisenhower
Virtue does not consist so much in abstaining from vice, as in not having an affection for it. W.T. Eldridge
Poetry is not the assertion of truth, but the making of that truth more fully real to us. T.S. Eliot
In all private quarrels the duller nature is triumphant by reason of dullness. George Eliot
An ass may bray a good while before he shakes the stars down. George Eliot
Humankind cannot bear very much reality. T.S. Eliot
Birth, and copulation, and death. That's all the facts when you come to brass tacks. Thomas Stearns Eliot
I should like to know what is the proper function of women if it is not to make reasons for husbands to stay at home, and still stronger reasons for bachelors to go out. George Eliot
We are all apt to believe what the world believes about us. George Eliot
What we call progress is the exchange of one nuisance for another nuisance. Henry Havelock Ellis
There are few among us who have not suffered from too early familiarity with the Bible and the conceptions of religion. Havelock Ellis
All mankind love a lover. Ralph Waldo Emerson
A great part of courage is the courage of having done the thing before. R.W. Emerson
Good writing is a kind of skating which carries off the performer where he would not go. R.W. Emerson
Genius borrows nobly. R.W Emerson
Men love to wonder, and that is the seed of science. R.W. Emerson
Every great and commanding moment in the annals of the world is the triumph of some enthusiasm. R.W. Emerson
Commit a crime, and the earth is made of glass. There is no such thing as concealment. R.W. Emerson
No man thoroughly understands a truth until he has contended against it. R.W. Emerson
Society is always taken by surprise at any new example of common sense. R.W. Emerson
Every hero becomes a bore at last. R.W. Emerson
By necessity, by proclivity, and by delight, we all quote. R.W. Emerson
Every reform is only a mask under cover of which a more terrible reform, which dares not yet name itself, advances. R.W. Emerson
If a man write a better book, preach a better sermon, or make a better mouse-trap than his neighbour, though he build his house in the woods, the world will make a beaten path to his door. R.W. Emerson
You cannot do wrong without suffering wrong. R.W. Emerson
In every work of genius, we recognize our own rejected thoughts; they come back to us with a certain alienated majesty. R.W. Emerson
Too busy with the crowded hour to fear to live or die. R.W. Emerson
By right or wrong Lands and goods go to the strong. R.W. Emerson
Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm. R.W. Emerson
God screens men from premature ideas. R.W. Emerson
Our best thoughts come from others. R.W. Emerson
The reward of a thing well done is to have done it. R.W. Emerson
When it is dark enough you can see the stars. R.W. Emerson
There is properly no history; only biography. R.W. Emerson
Take notes on the spot, a note is worth a cart-load of recollections. R.W. Emerson
To be great is to be misunderstood. R.W. Emerson
In failing circumstances no man can be relied on to keep his integrity. R.W. Emerson
We boil at different degrees. R.W. Emerson
Love of beauty is Taste . . . The creation of beauty is Art. R.W. Emerson
Whoso would be a man must be a nonconformist. R.W. Emerson
Let a man know his worth, and keep things under his feet. R.W. Emerson
The end of the human race is that it will die of civilization. R.W. Emerson
Talent alone cannot make a writer. There must be a man behind the book. R.W. Emerson
The highest compact we can make with our fellow is - "Let there be truth between us two forevermore." R.W. Emerson
Weed - a plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered. R.W. Emerson
The religion of one age is the literary entertainment of the next. R.W. Emerson
Whilst he sits on the cushions of advantage, he goes to sleep. R.W. Emerson
The silence that accepts merit as the most natural thing in the world, is the highest applause. R.W. Emerson
They can conquer who believe they can. It is he who has done the deed once who does not shrink from attempting it again. R.W. Emerson
Habit is either the best of servants or the worst of masters. Nathaniel Emmons
There is perhaps nothing more conducive to success in any important and difficult undertaking than a firm, steady, unremitting spirit. Nathaniel Emmons
He that would the daughter win, Must with the mother first begin. English Proverb
No sooner said than done, so acts your man of worth. Ennius
Keep neither a blunt knife nor an ill-disciplined looseness of tongue. Epictetus
You need but will, and it is done; but if you relax your efforts you will be ruined, for ruin and recovery are both from within. Epictetus
In the country of the blind the one-eyed man is king. Desiderius Erasmus
Righteous vengefulness . . . has always made new tyrannies out of aging liberations. Erik Erickson
There's a difference between beauty and charm. A beautiful woman is one I notice. A charming woman is one who notices me. John Erskine
Most people have some sort of religion, at least they know which church they're staying away from. John Erskine
We do not insist that the more saintly of two surgeons shall operate on us for appendicitis. John Erskine
The quizzical expression of the monkey at the zoo comes from his wondering whether he is his brother's keeper or his keeper's brother. Evan Esar
After wisdom comes wit. E. Esar
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy - and Jill a wealthy widow. E. Esar
Si jeunesse savait; si vieillesse pouvait: If only youth knew, if only age could. Henri Estienne
Those whom God wishes to destroy, he first makes mad. Euripides
All other woes a woman bears are minor But lose her husband! - might as well be dead. Euripides
Stoicism is the wisdom of madness and cynicism the madness of wisdom. Bergen Evans
To the naive, skepticism often seems malicious perversity: Only some secret enemy in the inward degenerate nature of man, said Topsell, could lead anyone to doubt the existence of the unicorn. B. Evans
Wisdom is meaningless until our own experience has given it meaning . . . and there is wisdom in the selection of wisdom. B. Evans
When a woman behaves like a man why doesn't she behave like a nice man. Dame Edith Evans
Words are one of our chief means of adjusting to all the situations of life. The better control we have over words, the more successful our adjustment is likely to be. B. Evans
Tall oaks from little acorns grow. David Everett
I gave my life for freedom - this I know: For those who bade me fight had told me so. W.N. Ewer
The formula for Utopia on earth remains always the same: to make a necessity of virtue. Clifton Fadiman
. . . the difference between town and country is mostly the view. Nan Fairbrother
Childhood is fierce as tigers. Tame the tigers, there is no childhood. Henry Fairlie
The people came to realize that wealth is not the fruit of labour but the result of organized protected robbery. Frantz Fanon
Violence alone, violence committed by the people, violence organized and educated by its leaders, makes it possible for the masses to understand social truths and gives the key to them. Frantz Fanon
There's no scandal like rags, nor any crime so shameful as poverty. George Farquhar
If people really liked to work, we'd still be plowing the land with sticks and transporting goods on our backs. William Feather
Important work is seldom done when one is feeling important. W. Feather
Indifference and inaction must always pay a penalty. W. Feather
All wars are civil wars, because all men are brothers . . . Each one owes infinitely more to the human race than to the particular country in which he was born. Francois Fenelon
Live, as it were, in trust. All that is in you, all that you are, is only loaned to you. Make use of it according to the will of Him who lends it, but never regard it for a moment as your own. Francois Fenelon
Let justice be done, though the world perish. Ferdinand I
A man who experiences no genuine satisfaction in life does not want peace . . . Men court war to escape meaninglessness and boredom, to be relieved of fear and frustration. Nels F.S. Ferre
Men just don't seem to jump off the bridge for big reasons; they usually do so for little ones. W.H. Ferry
A mighty good sausage stuffer was spoiled when the man became a poet. Eugene Field
Anybody who hates children and dogs can't be all bad. W.C. Fields
I am free of all prejudice. I hate everyone equally. William Claude Fields
Why shouldn't the American people take half my money from me? I took all of it from them. Edward A. Filene
Maturity of mind is the capacity to endure uncertainty. John Finley
A conclusion is the place where you got tired thinking. Martin H. Fischer
What this country needs is radicals who will stay that way regardless of the creeping years. John Fischer
The most essential feature of man is his improvableness. John Fiske
An author ought to write for the youth of his own generation, the critics of the next, and the schoolmaster of ever afterwards. F.Scott Fitzgerald
The victor belongs to the spoils. F.Scott Fitzgerald
Of himself and his wife: Sometimes I don't know whether Zelda and I are real or whether we are characters in one of my novels. F.Scott Fitzgerald
Marriage: It is the loose ends with which men hang themselves. Zelda Fitzgerald. Wife of F.Scott Fitzgerald
Love is like linen often changed, the sweeter. Phineas Fletcher
England is the paradise of women, the purgatory of men, and the hell of horses. John Florio
Patience and passage of time do more than strength and fury. Jean De La Fontaine
Even a mistake may turn out to be the one thing necessary to a worthwhile achievement. Henry Ford
If money is your hope for independence you will never have it. The only real security that a man can have in this world is a reserve of knowledge, experience and ability. Henry Ford
Nothing is particularly hard if you divide it into small jobs. Henry Ford
Faith, to my mind, is a stiffening process, a sort of mental starch, which ought to be applied as sparingly as possible. E.M. Forster
Always take a job that is too big for you. H.E. Fosdick
Democracy is based upon the conviction that there are extraordinary possibilities in ordinary people. H.E. Fosdick
It is no disgrace to rest a bit. G. Fowler
In every well-governed state wealth is a sacred thing; in democracies it is the ONLY sacred thing. Anatole France
We do not know what to do with this short life, yet we yearn for another that will be eternal. Anatole France
A woman must choose: with a man liked by women, she is not sure; with a man disliked by women, she is not happy. Anatole France
Of all sexual aberrations, chastity is the strangest. Anatole France
In this world nothing is certain but death and taxes. Benjamin Franklin
'Tis a laudable Ambition, that aims at being better than his Neighbours. Benjamin Franklin
There is much difference between imitating a man and counterfeiting him. Benjamin Franklin
We think we are on the right road to improvement because we are making experiments. Benjamin Franklin
We must indeed all hang together, or most assuredly, we shall all hang separately. Benjamin Franklin
Up, sluggard, and waste not life; in the grave will be sleeping enough. Benjamin Franklin
Americans have mastered the art of being prosperous though broke. Billy Boy Franklin
All a man needs to be elected President is the kind of profile that looks good on a postage stamp. B.B. Franklin
I have made it a rule, whenever I say something stupid, to immediately attribute it to Samuel Johnson, the President of these United States - or the Bible. B.B. Franklin
Be generous, good and just - when anything is to be gained by virtue. B.B. Franklin
If a lie is repeated often enough all the dumb jackasses in the world not only get to believe it, they even swear by it. B.B. Franklin
Mere survival is an affliction. What is of interest is life, and the direction of that life. Guy Fregault
At bottom God is nothing more than an exalted father. Sigmund Freud
Children are completely egotistic; they feel their needs intensely and strive ruthlessly to satisfy them. Sigmund Freud
When a man is freed of religion, he has a better chance to live a normal and wholesome life. Sigmund Freud
Religion is an illusion and it derives its strength from the fact that it falls in with our instinctual desires. Sigmund Freud
Man's judgments of value follow directly his wishes for happiness - they are an attempt to support his illusions with arguments. Sigmund Freud
The great question . . . which I have not been able to answer, despite my thirty years of research into the feminine soul, is "What does a woman want?" Sigmund Freud
Clothe an idea in words and it loses its freedom of movement. Egon Friedell
There is perhaps no phenomenon which contains so much destructive feeling as moral indignation which permits envy or hate to be acted out under the guise of virtue. Erich Fromm
As we ascend the social ladder, viciousness wears a thicker mask. Erich Fromm
The successful revolutionary is a statesman, the unsuccessful one a criminal. Erich Fromm
The idea that egotism is the basis of the general welfare is the principle on which competitive society has been built. Erich Fromm
There is perhaps no phenomenon which contains so much destructive feeling as moral indignation, which permits envy or hate to be acted out under the guise of virtue. Erich Fromm
Accounting: Nobody was ever meant To remember or invent What he did with every cent. Robert Frost
A diplomat is a man who always remembers a woman's birthday but never remembers her age. Robert Frost
A poet begins in delight and ends in wisdom. Robert Frost
By working faithfully eight hours a day, you may eventually get to be a boss and work twelve hours a day. Robert Frost
The reason why worry kills more people than work is that more people worry than work. Robert Frost
Most of the change we think we see in life Is due to truths being in and out of favour. Robert Frost
The world is full of willing people; some willing to work, the rest willing to let them. Robert Frost
I would as soon write free verse as play tennis with the net down. Robert Frost
More than once I should have lost my soul to radicalism if it had been the originality it was mistaken for by its young converts. Robert Frost
The best things and best people rise out of their separateness; I'm against a homogenized society because I want the cream to rise. Robert Frost
The style is the man. Rather say the style is the way the man takes himself. If it is with outer seriousness, it must be with inner humour. If it is with outer humour, it must be with inner seriousness. Robert Frost
A bank is a place where they lend you an umbrella in fair weather and ask for it back when it begins to rain. Robert Frost. American Poet
The practical effect of a belief is the real test of its soundness. James Anthony Froude
When I am working on a problem, I never think about beauty. I think only of how to solve the problem. But when I have finished, if the solution is not beautiful, I know it is wrong. Buckminster Fuller
A man's best fortune, or his worst, is his wife. Thomas Fuller
Ninety-five percent of films are born of frustration, of self-despair, of poverty, of ambition for survival, for money, for fattening bank accounts. Sam Fuller
Action is the proper Fruit of Knowledge. Thomas Fuller
The number of malefactors authorizes not the crime. Thomas Fuller
Two things a man should never be angry at: what he can help, and what he cannot help. Thomas Fuller
Husbands are like fires - they go out when unattended. Zsa Zsa Gabor
I am a marvellous housekeeper. Every time I leave a man, I keep his house. Zsa Zsa Gabor
You never really know a man until you have divorced him. Zsa Zsa Gabor
Wife, mother, nurse, seamstress, cook, housekeeper, chambermaid, laundress, dairy-woman, and scrub generally, doing the work of six, for the sake of being supported. Frances Dana Gage
In the United States though power corrupts, the expectation of power paralyzes. J.K. Galbraith
Wealth is not without its advantages and the case to the contrary, although it has often been made, has never proved widely persuasive. J.K. Galbraith
It is impossible in a democratic society to think of a single measure for the improvement of social well-being which is not subject to subversion by ill-conceived minority or even majority pressures. J.K. Galbraith
Emancipation of the mind is a no less worthy enterprise than emancipation of the body. J.K. Galbraith
I have a feeling that at any time about three million Americans can be had for any militant reaction against law, decency, the Constitution, the Supreme Court, compassion and the rule of reason. J.K. Galbraith
Talk of revolution is one of avoiding reality. J.K. Galbraith
I do not feel obliged to believe that that same God who has endowed us with sense, reason, and intellect has intended us to forego their use. Galileo Galilei
What difference does it make to the dead . . . whether the mad destruction is wrought under the name of totalitarianism or the holy name of liberty or democracy? Mohandas Gandhi
What is a man if he is not a thief who openly charges as much as he can for the goods he sells? Mohandas Gandhi
I consider myself a Hindu, Christian, Moslem, Jew, Buddhist, and Confucian. Mohandas Gandhi
Golden shackles are far worse than iron ones. Mohandas Gandhi
I cannot see myself as a wife - ugly word. Greta Garbo
Women marry because they don't want to work. Mary Garden. Opera singer
Violence is counter-productive and produces changes of a sort you don't want. It is a very dangerous instrument and can destroy those who wield it. John Gardner
The job of a teacher is to excite in the young a boundless sense of curiosity about life, so that the growing child shall come to apprehend it with an excitement tempered by awe and wonder. John Garrett
My country is the world. My countrymen are all mankind. William Lloyd Garrison
Humour is an affirmation of dignity, a declaration of man's superiority to all that befalls him. Romain Gary
Forget the times of your distress, but never forget what they taught you. Herbert Gasser
Before being the master of others, you should be the master of yourself. Jose Ortega y Gasset
Victory has a hundred fathers but defeat is an orphan. W.I.E. Gates
What if Columbus had been told, Chris baby, don't go now. Wait until we've solved our No.1 Priorities - war and famine; poverty and crime; pollution and disease; illiteracy and racial hatred - and Queen Isabella's own brand of internal security. W.I.E Gates
The comfortable estate of widowhood is the only hope that keeps up a wife's spirits. John Gay
Give a woman a job and she grows balls. Jack Gelber
There is nothing so fatal to character as half-finished tasks. David Lloyd George
There are people into whose heads it never enters to conceive of any better state of society than that which now exists. Henry George
A country can be judged by the quality of its proverbs. German Proverb
The worst scoundrels make the best preachers. German Proverb
Unprovided with original learning, unformed in the habits of thinking, unskilled in the arts of composition, I resolved to write a book. Edward Gibbon
I was never less alone than while by myself. Edward Gibbon
So urgent on the vulgar is the necessity of believing, that the fall of any system of mythology will probably be succeeded by the introduction of some other mode of superstition. Edward Gibbon
Disagreement may be the shortest cut between two minds. Kahlil Gibran
I always voted at my party's call, And never thought of thinking for myself at all I thought so little, they rewarded me By making me the Ruler of the Queen's Navee! W.S. Gilbert
In all the woes that curse our race, There is lady in the case. W.S. Gilbert
I got all the schooling any actress needs. That is, I learned to write enough to sign contracts. Hermione Gingold
Everyone, when there's a war in the air, learns to live with a new element; falsehood. Jean Giraudoux
A wife loves out of duty, and duty leads to constraint, and constraint kills desire. Jean Giraudoux
Success isn't a result of spontaneous combustion. You must set yourself on fire. Arnold Glasow
Behind every successful man is a woman - with nothing to wear. L. Grant Glickman
Hereditary wealth is in reality a premium paid to idleness. William Godwin
And here, poor fool, with all my lore I stand no wiser than before. J.W. von Goethe
Ambition and love are the wings of great actions. J.W. von Goethe
When an idea is wanting a word can always be found to take its place. J.W. von Goethe
Everything in the world may be endured except continual prosperity. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Behavior is a mirror in which everyone displays his image. J.W. von Goethe
If any man wishes to write a clear style, let him first be clear in his thoughts. J.W. von Goethe
Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do. J.W. von Goethe
I do not love a man who is zealous for nothing. Oliver Goldsmith
Love: An abject intercourse between tyrants and slaves. Oliver Goldsmith
Silence gives consent. Oliver Goldsmith
I chose my wife, as she did her wedding gown, not for a fine glossy surface, but such qualities as would wear well. Oliver Goldsmith
It would indeed be a tragedy if the history of the human race proved to be nothing more than the story of an ape playing with a box of matches on a petrol dump. David Ormsby Gore
Civilized man's brain is a museum of contradictory truths. Remy de Gourmont
Atom bomb stockpiles are no guarantee of security. Until lust and greed and murder are removed from the hearts of men, there is, there can be, no peace or security. A.P. Gouthey
There is more required today to make a single man wise than formerly to make Seven Sages. Baltasar Gracian
Childhood is ignorant, boyhood is lightheaded, youth is rash, and old age is ill-humoured. Luis De Granada
There never was a time when, in my opinion, some way could not be found to prevent the drawing of the sword. Ulysses S. Grant
When a man despairs, he does not write; he commits suicide. George Monro Grant
If you steal something small you are a petty thief, but if you steal millions you are a gentleman of society. Greek Proverb
The real theatre of the sex war is the domestic hearth. Germaine Greer
If the work of God could be comprehended by reason, it would be no longer wonderful, and faith would have no merit if reason provided proof. Pope Gregory 1
Nature didn't make us perfect so she did the next best thing. She made us blind to our faults. Grit
Figures won't lie, but liars will figure. Charles H. Grosvenor
I had always assumed that cliche was a suburb of Paris, until I discovered it to be a street in Oxford. Philip Guedalla
Biography, like big game hunting, is one of the recognized forms of sport, and it is as unfair as only sport can be. Philip Guedalla
A fairly bright boy is more intelligent and far better company than the average adult. J.B.S. Haldane
If there are two ways of doing something - the easy way and the best way, most people will select the easy way even though it's hardly ever effective. Robert Half
Why is it that when a store is going out of business, the store's personnel are always helpful and polite. Robert Half
History is philosophy teaching by examples. Dionysius of Halicarnassus
Most men's anger about religion is as if two men should quarrel for a lady they neither of them care for. Lord Halifax
Actually, I'm an overnight success. But it took twenty years. Monty Hall
Man's security comes from within himself, and the security of all men is founded upon the security of the individual. Manly Hall
Every person is responsible for all the good within the scope of his abilities, and for no more, and none can tell whose sphere is the largest. Gail Hamilton
To let oneself be bound by a duty from the moment you see it approaching is part of the integrity that alone justifies responsibility. Dag Hammarskjold
You have not done enough, you have never done enough, so long as it is still possible that you have something to contribute. Dag Hammarskjold
Next to the American corpse, the American bride is the hottest thing in today's merchandising market. Kitty Hanson. American writer
Virtue is its own revenge. E.Y. Harburg
Ambition is a commendable attribute, without which no man succeeds. Only inconsiderate ambition imperils. Warren G. Harding
More and more university students are convinced that work in American society is morally empty, aesthetically ugly, and, under conditions of automation, economically unnecessary. Michael Harrington
Nobody can be so amusingly arrogant as a young man who has just discovered an old idea and thinks it is his own. Sydney Harris
You may be sure that when a man begins to call himself a realist, he is preparing to do something he is secretly ashamed of doing. Sydney Harris
Intelligence, I admit, is no safeguard if one is determined to leap into disbelief. Barbara Harrison
Irreligious men are often better suited for godly missions. Hasidic Saying
All that was new in them was false and what was true was old. Professor Haughton. on Darwin's findings
A man's soul may be buried and perish under a dungheap or in a furrow of the field, just as under a pile of money. Nathaniel Hawthorne
Science seeks generally only the most useful systems of classification: these it regards for the time being, until more useful classifications are invented as true. S.I. Hayakawa
The last thing a scientist would do is cling to a map because he inherited it from his grandfather, or because it was used by George Washington or Abraham Lincoln. S.I. Hayakawa
Those who cannot miss an opportunity of saying a good thing are not to be trusted with the management of any great question. William Hazlitt
Some persons make promises for the pleasure of breaking them. William Hazlitt
Wit is the rarest quality to be met with among people of education. William Hazlitt
Actors are the only honest hypocrites. William Hazlitt
Life is the art of being well deceived. William Hazlitt
No style is good that is not fit to be spoken or read aloud with effect. William Hazlitt
Prosperity is a great teacher; adversity a greater. William Hazlitt
Don't tell my mother I work in an advertising agency - she thinks I play the piano in a whore house. Head of French advertising agency
What's not worth doing is not worth doing well. Don Hebb
Opinions founded on prejudice are always sustained with the greatest violence. Hebrew Proverb
Poverty is a wonderful thing. It sticks to a man after all his friends have forsaken him. Hebrew Proverb
Life has a value only when it has something valuable as its object. Hegel
Poverty sits by the cradle of all our great men and rocks all of them to manhood. Heinrich Heine
If I had to give young writers advice, I'd say don't listen to writers talking about writing. Lillian Hellman
Callous greed grows pious very fast. Lillian Hellman
Courage is grace under pressure. Ernest Hemingway
But in modern war . . . you will die like a dog for no good reason. Ernest Hemingway
All good books are alike in that they are truer than if they had really happened. Ernest Hemingway
Never think that war, no matter how necessary, nor how justified, is not a crime. Ernest Hemingway
Plain women know more about men than beautiful ones do. But beautiful women don't need to know about men. It's the men who have to know about the beautiful women. Katherine Hepburn
Only the young die good. Oliver Herford
Manuscript: Something submitted in haste and returned at leisure. Oliver Herford
That age is best which is the first When youth and blood are warmer. Robert Herrick
Wonder rather than doubt is the root of knowledge. Abraham Joshua Heschel
Adults have already been taught to look at things only one way - the accepted way. Eight-year-olds are too uneducated to be that dumb. Karl Hess
When two cultures collide is the only time when true suffering exists. Hermann Hesse
The gap in our economy is between what we have and what we think we ought to have - and that is a moral problem, not an economic one. Paul Heyne
Many people have played themselves to death. Many people have eaten and drunk themselves to death. Nobody ever thought himself to death. Gilbert Highet
There's a might big difference between good, sound reasons and reasons that sound good. Burton Hillis
There is nothing women hate so much as to see men selfishly enjoying themselves without the solace of feminine society. Katharine Tynan Hinkson
To do nothing is also a good remedy. Hippocrates
Style is self-plagiarism. Alfred Hitchcock
The cinema is not a slice of life, it's a piece of cake. Alfred Hitchcock
A violently active, dominating, intrepid, brutal youth - that is what I am after. Adolf Hitler
We stand for the maintenance of private property. Adolf Hitler
The victor will never be asked if he told the truth. Adolf Hitler
All who are not of good race in this world are chaff. Adolf Hitler
A new age of magic interpretation of the world is coming, of interpretation in terms of the will and not of the intelligence. There is no such thing as truth, either in the moral or the scientific sense. Adolf Hitler
By this revolution the German way of life is definitely settled for the next thousand years. Adolf Hitler
England and America will one day have a war with one another, which will be waged with the greatest hatred imaginable. One of the two countries will have to disappear. Adolf Hitler
In a hundred years, our language will be the language of Europe. Adolf Hitler
The Japanese are occupying all the islands, one after another. They will get hold of Australia, too. The White Race will disappear from those regions. Adolf Hitler
The beauties of the Crimea, which we shall make accessible by means of an autobahn - for us Germans, that will be our Riviera. Adolf Hitler
The day of individual happiness has passed. Adolf Hitler
The essential thing for the future is to have lots of children. Everybody should be persuaded that the family's life is assured only when it has upwards of four children - I should even say, four sons. Adolf Hitler
The great masses of the people will more easily fall victims to a big lie than to a small one. Adolf Hitler
Truth is with the victor - who, as you know, also controls the historians. Rolf Hochhuth
We are told that talent creates its own opportunities. But it sometimes seems that intense desire creates not only its own opportunities, but its own talents. Eric Hoffer
Humility is not renunciation of pride but the substitution of one pride for another. Eric Hoffer
Many of the insights of the saint stem from his experience as a sinner. Eric Hoffer
The sterile radical is basically . . . conservative. He is afraid to let go of the ideas and beliefs he picked up in his youth lest his life be seen as empty and wasted. Eric Hoffer
To become different from what we are, we must have some awareness of what we are. Eric Hoffer
Deep down, Erikson wants profoundly to be respected and admired - and very deep down he wants to be left alone. Stanley Hoffmann
The best way I know of to win an argument is to start by being in the right. Quentin Hogg
A child enters your home and for the next twenty years makes so much noise that you can hardly stand it. Then the child departs, leaving the house so silent that you think you are going mad. John Andrew Holmes
The universe is not hostile, nor yet is it friendly. It is simply indifferent. John H. Holmes
Fresh air is good if you don't take too much of it; most of the achievements and pleasures of life are in bad air. Oliver Wendell Holmes
The Law, wherein, as in a magic mirror we see reflected not only our own lives, but the lives of all men that have been! When I think of this majestic theme my eyes dazzle. Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr.
Every calling is great when greatly pursued. Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr.
The longing for certainty and repose is in every human mind. But certainty is generally illusion and repose is not the destiny of man. Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.
How many people live on the reputation of the reputation they might have made! Oliver Wendell Holmes
The man who is always worrying whether or not his soul would be damned generally has a soul that isn't worth a damn. Oliver Wendell Holmes
Babies and infants show a style of life, and a desire and ability to learn, that in an adult we might well call genius. John Holt
Absolute freedom of the press to discuss public questions is a foundation stone of American liberty. Herbert Hoover
Blessed are the young, for they shall inherit the national debt. Herbert Hoover
A bank is a place that will lend you money if you can prove that you don't need it. Bob Hope
What would the world be, once bereft Of wet and wildness? Let them be left, let them be left, wildness and wet; Long live the weeds and the wilderness yet. Gerard Manley Hopkins
No poems can live long or please that are written by water-drinkers. Horace
Beggars, actors, buffoons, and all that breed. Horace
Instead of forming new words I recommend to you any kind of artful management by which you are able to give cost to old ones. Horace
The man is either mad, or he is making verses. Horace
Nature not content with denying him the ability to think, has endowed him with the ability to write. A.E. Housman
I think I am better than the people who are trying to reform me. E.W. Howe
Men have as exaggerated an idea of their rights as women have of their wrongs. E.W. Howe
The way of the world is to praise dead saints and to persecute living ones. Nathaniel Howe
Prosperity: That condition which attracts the lively interest of lawyers, and warrants your being sued for damages, or indicted; or both. Elbert Hubbard
We work to become, not to acquire. Elbert Hubbard
If you suffer, thank God! - it is a sure sign that you are alive. Elbert Hubbard
A society in which women are taught anything but the management of a family, the care of men, and the creation of the future generation is a society which is on the way out. L. Ron Hubbard
An optimist is a fellow who believes what's going to be will be postponed. Kin Hubbard
A man is as good as he has to be, and a woman as bad as she dares. Elbert Hubbard
An optimist is always broke. Kin Hubbard
Poet: A person born with an instinct for poverty. Elbert Hubbard
I'll say this for adversity; people seem to be able to stand it, and that's more than I can say for prosperity. Kin Hubbard
Polygamy: An endeavour to get more out of life than there is in it. Elbert Hubbard
Saintship is the exclusive possession of those who have either worn out or never had the capacity to sin. Elbert Hubbard
When a fellow says it ain't the money but the principle of the thing, it's the money. Kin Hubbard
I guess walking slow getting married is because it gives you time to maybe change your mind. Virginia Cary Hudson
England has two books, one which she has made and one which has made her: Shakespeare and the Bible. Victor Hugo
Great perils have this beauty, that they bring to light the fraternity of strangers. Victor Hugo
Habit is the nursery of errors. Victor Hugo
Advice is not disliked because it is advice; but because so few people know how to give it. Leigh Hunt
The same people who can deny others everything are famous for refusing themselves nothing. Leigh Hunt
We do not know what education could do for us, because we have never tried it. Robert Maynard Hutchins
The rung of a ladder was never meant to rest upon, but only to hold a man's foot long enough to put the other somewhat higher. Thomas Huxley
Children are remarkable for their . . . intolerance of shams, the clarity and ruthlessness of their vision. Aldous Huxley
Like every man of sense and good feeling, I abominate work. Aldous Huxley
I am ignorant and impotent and yet, somehow or other, here I am unhappy, no doubt, profoundly dissatisfied . . . In spite of everything I survive. Aldous Huxley
They intoxicate themselves with work so they won't see how they really are. Aldous Huxley
To a person uninstructed in natural history, his country or seaside stroll is a walk through a gallery filled with wonderful works of art, nine-tenths of which have their faces turned to the wall. Thomas Henry Huxley
Science commits suicide when it adopts a creed. Thomas Henry Huxley
Several excuses are always less convincing than one. Aldous Huxley
In practical life, the woman is judged by man's law, as if she were a man, not a woman. Henrik Ibsen
To write: that is to sit in judgement over one's self. H. Ibsen
I am afraid the clergyman's God is often the head of the clerical profession. Dean W.R. Inge
A nation is a society united by a delusion about its ancestry and by a common hatred of its neighbours. Dean William R. Inge. Dean of St. Paul's London
Few rich men own their own property. The property owns them. Robert G. Ingersoll
Women prefer men who have something tender about them - especially the legal kind. Kay Ingram
Everything that I know now I have known since the age of six or seven: the age of reason. Eugene Ionesco
It isn't what people think that is important, but the reason they think what they think. Eugene Ionesco
Of three things the devil makes a stew: lawyers' tongues, lovers' promises, and ungrateful children. Italian proverb
The nation that is richest in proverbs (Spain) is the one that has proved itself the least wise in action. Joseph Jacobs
We have to live today by what truth we can get today and be ready tomorrow to call it falsehood. William James
Childhood is the one prison from which there's no escape, the one sentence from which there's no appeal. We all serve our time. P.D. James
So far war has been the only force that can discipline a whole community, and until an equivalent discipline is organized, I believe that war must have its way. William James
Suicide was naturally the consistent course dictated by the logical intellect. (Is suicide the ultimate sincerity? There seems to be no way to refute the logic of suicide but by the illogic of instinct.) William James
The art of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook. William James
The exclusive worship of the bitch-goddess success is our national disease. William James
It is only in the lonely emergencies of life that our creed is tested: then routine maxims fail, and we fall back on our gods. William James
The deepest principle in human nature is the craving to be appreciated. William James
The more fervent opponents of Christian doctrine have often enough shown a temper which, psychologically considered, is indistinguishable from religious zeal. William James
Religious awe is the same organic thrill which we feel in a forest at twilight, or in a mountain gorge. William James
The great use of life is to spend it for something that outlasts it. William James
Most comics make jokes to defend themselves against what they see as a hostile and inhumane world . . . often a deeply felt rage. Samuel S. Janus
. . . and another lot of young people will appear, and consider us completely outdated, and they will write ballads to express their loathing of us, and there is no reason why this should ever end. Alfred Jarry
There is nothing so good to the heart as well argued conversation, when you know that your companion will answer to your thought as the anvil meets the hammer . . . Richard Jefferies
I have sworn upon the altar of God, eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man. Thomas Jefferson
I'm a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work the more I have of it. Thomas Jefferson
The most valuable of all talents is that of never using two words when one will do. Thomas Jefferson
When we get piled upon one another in large cities, we shall become as corrupt as in Europe, and go to eating one another as they do there. Thomas Jefferson
For here we are not afraid to follow truth wherever it may lead, nor to tolerate error so long as reason is free to combat it. Thomas Jefferson
Question with boldness even the existence of God; because, if there be one, he must more approve of the homage of reason than that of blindfolded fear. Thomas Jefferson
Love is like the measles; we all have to go through it. Jerome K. Jerome
It often happens that I wake at night and begin to think about a serious problem and decide I must tell the Pope about it. Then I wake up completely and remember that I am the Pope. Pope John XXIII
A cow is a very good animal in the field, but we turn her out of a garden. Samuel Johnson
All the arguments which are brought to represent poverty as no evil show it to be evidently a great evil. Samuel Johnson
We do pretty much whatever we want to. Why can't we live in good cities? Philip Johnson
Patriotism: The last refuge of the scoundrel. Dr. Johnson
Claret is the liquor for boys; port for men; but he who aspires to be a hero must drink brandy. Samuel Johnson
I never desire to converse with a man who has written more than he has read. Samuel Johnson
Smoking is a shocking thing - blowing smoke out of our mouths into other people's mouths, eyes, and noses, and having the same thing done to us. Samuel Johnson
The greatest part of a writer's time is spent in reading, in order to write; a man will turn over half a library to make one book. Samuel Johnson
Your manuscript is both good and original; but the part that is good is not original, and the part that is original is not good. Samuel Johnson
A man in jail has more room, better food, and commonly better company. Samuel Johnson
To improve the golden moment of opportunity and catch the good that is within our reach is the great art of life. Samuel Johnson
Oats: A grain which in England is generally given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people. Samuel Johnson
What is written without effort is in general read without pleasure. Samuel Johnson
Treating your adversary with respect is giving him an advantage to which he is not entitled. Samuel Johnson
That is the happiest conversation where there is no competition, no vanity but a calm quiet interchange of sentiments. Samuel Johnson
The applause of a single human being is of great consequence. Samuel Johnson
Men seldom make passes at a girl who surpasses. Franklin P. Jones
What makes resisting temptation difficult, for many people, is that they don't want to discourage it completely. Franklin P. Jones
Wearing shorts usually reveals nothing about a man so much as his indifference to public opinion. Franklin P. Jones
Advice is what we ask for when we already know the answer but wish we didn't. Erica Mann Jong
Ambition, like a torrent, ne'er looks back; And is a swelling, and the last affection A high mind can put off. Ben Jonson
He knows not his own strength that hath not met adversity. Ben Jonson
Taste is the literary conscience of the soul. Joseph Joubert
They castrate the books of other men in order that with the fat of their works they may lard their own lean volumes. Jovious
Pity is the feeling which arrests the mind in the presence of whatsoever is grave and constant in human sufferings and unites it with the human sufferer. James Joyce
Justice is the constant and perpetual wish to render to everyone his due. Justinian
Anyone can direct a good picture if he's got a good script. Garson Kanin
You do not destroy an idea by killing people; you replace it with a better one. Edward Keating
If poetry comes not as naturally as the leaves to a tree it had better not come at all. John Keats
Beauty is truth, truth beauty. John Keats
I would sooner fail than not be among the greatest. John Keats
If you cannot mould yourself as you would wish, how can you expect other people to be entirely to your liking? Thomas A. Kempis
Thou shalt ever joy at eventide if thou spend the day fruitfully. Thomas A. Kempis
It is much safer to obey than to rule. Thomas A. Kempis
Verily, when the day of judgment comes, we shall not be asked what we have read, but what we have done. Thomas A. Kempis
Man proposes but God disposes. Thomas A. Kempis
Sic transit gloria mundi - Oh, how swiftly the glory of the world passes away! Thomas A. Kempis
Would to God that we might spend a single day really well! Thomas A. Kempis
The truly passionate are little boys. Murray Kempton
Teach me to live, that I may dread The grave as little as my bed. Bishop Thomas Ken
We have the power to make this the best generation of mankind in the history of the world - or to make it the last. John F. Kennedy
Oppressed people are frequently very oppressive when first liberated . . . They know best two positions. Somebody's foot on their neck or their foot on somebody's neck. Florence Kennedy
Those who make peaceful revolution impossible will make violent revolution inevitable. John F. Kennedy
Is there such a thing as Shoppers Anonymous? John F. Kennedy. Commenting on wife Jacqueline
There are three sides to every story - yours, mine, and all that lie between. Jody Kern
Tact: Ability to tell a man he's open-minded when he has a hole in his head. F.G. Kernan
Marrying a man is like buying something you've been admiring for a long time in a shop window. You may love it when you get home, but it doesn't always go with everything else in the house. Jean Kerr. American writer
If you want to kill any idea in the world today, get a committee working on it. C.F. Kettering
You can be sincere and still be stupid. Charles F. Kettering
It is man's destiny to ponder on the riddle of existence and, as a by-product of his wonderment, to create a new life on the earth. C.F. Kettering
Learn how to fail intelligently, for failing is one of the greatest arts in the world. C.F. Kettering
There never has been any thirty-hour week for men who had anything to do. C.F. Kettering
It is ideas, not vested interests, which are dangerous for good or evil. John Maynard Keynes
Practical men . . . are usually the slaves of some defunct economist. Johy Maynard Keynes
Politicians are the same all over. They promise to build a bridge where there is no river. Nikita S. Khrushchev
If you feed the people just with revolutionary slogans they will listen today, they will listen tomorrow, they will listen the day after tomorrow, but on the fourth day they will say, To hell with you! Nikita Khrushchev
For men must work and women must weep, And the sooner it's over, the sooner to sleep. Charles Kingsley
Some say that the age of chivalry is past, that the spirit of romance is dead. The age of chivalry is never past, so long as there is a wrong left unredressed on earth. Charles Kingsley
We act as though comfort and luxury were the chief requirements of life, when all that we need to make us really happy is something to be enthusiastic about. Charles Kingsley
The sin ye do by two and two ye must pay for one by one. Rudyard Kipling
For Allah created the English mad - the maddest of all mankind! Rudyard Kipling
For the female of the species is more deadly than the male. Rudyard Kipling
Four things greater than all things are,- Women and Horses and Power and War. Rudyard Kipling
He travels the fastest who travels alone. Rudyard Kipling
I keep six honest serving-men (They taught me all I knew); Their names are What and Why and When And How and Where and Who. Rudyard Kipling
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster And treat those two impostors just the same. Rudyard Kipling
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, Or walk with kings - nor lose the common touch. Rudyard Kipling
The silliest woman can manage a clever man; but it needs a very clever woman to manage a fool. Rudyard Kipling
Too bad ninety percent of the politicians give the other ten percent a bad reputation. Henry Kissinger
Every good thought you think is contributing its share to the ultimate result of your life. Grenville Kleiser
We cannot unthink unless we are insane. Arthur Koestler
There are two ways to slide easily through life; to believe everything or to doubt everything. Both ways save us from thinking. Alfred Korzybski
The adherents of the status quo never had it so bad. There has always been a conflict between those who feel their values are eternal and those who feel they are relative. R. Kostelanetz
Television: A medium. So called because it is neither rare nor well done. Ernie Kovacs
Credulity is the man's weakness, but the child's strength. Charles Lamb
Nothing puzzles me more than time and space, and yet nothing puzzles me less, for I never think about them. Charles Lamb
The most mortifying infirmity in human nature, to feel in ourselves, or to contemplate in another, is, perhaps, cowardice. Charles Lamb
Levity is the soul of wit. Melville D. Landon. (Eli Perkins)
Taken as a whole, the universe is absurd. Walter Savage Landor
He uses statistics as a drunken man uses lamp-posts - for support rather than illumination. Andrew Lang
Two men look out through the same bars: One sees the mud, and one the stars. Frederick Langbridge
By 1960 work will be limited to three hours a day. John Langdon-Davies. A Short History of the Future 1936
By 1975 parents will have ceased to bring up their children in private family units. John Langdon-Davies. A Short History of the Future 1936
By 1975 sexual feeling and marriage will have nothing to do with each other. John Langdon-Davies. A Short History of the Future 1936
Crime will be considered a disease after 1985 and will cease to exist by AD 2000. John Langdon-Davies. A Short History of the Future 1936
Democracy will be dead by 1950. John Langdon-Davies. A Short History of the Future 1936
A good many young writers make the mistake of enclosing a stamped, self-addressed envelope, big enough for the manuscript to come back in. This is too much of a temptation to the editor. Ring Lardner
How can you write if you can't cry? Ring Lardner
For a desperate disease, a desperate cure. Latin Proverb
Polygamy: The greatest testimony to man's willingness to take chances. Joe Laurie Jr.
London seems to me like some hoary massive underworld, a hoary ponderous inferno. The traffic pours through the rigid grey streets like the rivers of hell . . . D.H. Lawrence
Grand Old Man: That means on our continent (North America) anyone with snow-white hair who has kept out of jail till eighty. Stephen Leacock.
People don't ask for facts in making up their minds. They would rather have one good, soul-satisfying emotion than a dozen facts. Robert Keith Leavitt
There's always room for improvement. It's the biggest room in the house. Louise Heath Leber
At the beginning there was the Word - at the end just the Cliche. Stanislaw J. Lec
Not all women give most of their waking thoughts to the problem of pleasing men. Some are married. Emma Lee
It's easier to be original and foolish than original and wise. Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz
The resistance of a woman is not always proof of her virtue but more frequently of her experience. Ninan de Lenclos
. . . the fatal theory of the separation of Church and State. Pope Leo XIII
To despise legitimate authority, no matter in whom it is invested, is unlawful; it is rebellion against God's will. Pope Leo XIII
To believe with certainty we must begin with doubting. Stanislaus J. Lescynski
A man who does not lose his reason over certain things has none to lose. Gotthold Ephraim Lessing
Statistics are like a bikini. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital. Aaron Levenstein
Noblesse oblige - Nobility carries its obligations. Duc De Levis
When audiences come to see us authors lecture, it is largely in the hope that we'll be funnier to look at than to read. Sinclair Lewis
It doesn't matter if you're rich or poor, as long as you've got money. Joe. E. Lewis
A person reveals his character by nothing so clearly as the joke he resents. G.C. Lichtenberg
Ambition and suspicion always go together. Georg Christoph Lichtenberg
If you have done your best and failed, try doing your worst; you might see your error and succeed. Benjamin Lichtenberg
Freedom of the press is limited to those who own one. A.J. Liebling
My father taught me to work, but not to love it. I never did like to work, and I don't deny it. I'd rather read, tell stories, crack jokes, talk, laugh - anything but work. Abraham Lincoln
Towering genius disdains a beaten path. It seeks regions hitherto unexplored. Abraham Lincoln
The ballot is stronger than the bullet. Abraham Lincoln
It is characteristic of all movements and crusades that the psychopathic element rises to the top. Robert Lindner
I do beseech you to direct your efforts more to preparing youth for the path and less to preparing the path for youth. Judge Ben Lindsay
Very few established institutions, governments and constitutions . . . are ever destroyed by their enemies until they have been corrupted and weakened by their friends. Walter Lippmann
Where all men think alike, no one thinks very much. Walter Lippmann
I have always thought the actions of men the best interpreters of their thoughts. John Locke
One unerring mark of the love of truth is not entertaining any proposition with greater assurance than the proofs it is built upon will warrant. John Locke
New opinions are always suspected, and usually opposed, without any other reason but because they are not already common. John Locke
We should have a great many fewer disputes in the world if words were taken for what they are, the signs of our ideas only, and not for things themselves. John Locke
The ignorant man always adores what he cannot understand. Cesare Lombroso
A boy's will is the wind's will, And the thoughts of youth are long, long thoughts. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
To say the least, a town life makes one more tolerant and liberal in one's judgement of others. H.W. Longfellow
Most people would succeed in small things if they were not troubled with great ambitions. H.W. Longfellow
Truth in science can be defined as the working hypothesis best suited to open the way to the next better one. Konrad Lorenz
Education is about the only thing lying around loose in the world, and it's about the only thing a fellow can have as much of as he's willing to haul away. George Horace Lorimer
Everytime I give someone a title, I make a hundred people angry and one person ungrateful. Louis XIV
Stone walls do not a prison make, Nor iron bars a cage. Richard Lovelace
A wise scepticism is the first attribute of a good critic. James Russell Lowell
The misfortunes hardest to bear are those which never come. James Russell Lowell
There is no good in arguing with the inevitable. The only argument available with an east wind is to put on your overcoat. James Russell Lowell
So long as a man enjoys prosperity, he cares not whether he is beloved. Marcus Annaeus Lucan
Reason is the enemy of faith. Martin Luther
By virtue we merely mean the avoidance of the vices that do not attract us. Robert Lynd
Yesterday is a cancelled cheque; tomorrow is a promissory note; today is the only cash you have - so spend it wisely. Kay Lyons
Men who use terrorism as a means to power, rule by terror once they are in power. Helen MacInness
. . . undergraduates . . . were always in revolt. They were never static. The only way they could form their minds was by opposing accepted opinion. Helen MacInness
As civilisation advances, poetry almost necessarily declines. Thomas Macaulay
Perhaps no person can be a poet, or can even enjoy poetry, without a certain unsoundness of mind. Thomas Macaulay
The business of everybody is the business of nobody. Thomas Macaulay
The gallery in which the reporters sit has become a fourth estate of the realm. Thomas Babington Macaulay
We know no spectacle so ridiculous as the British public in one of its periodical fits of morality. Thomas Macaulay
Every nation has the government that it deserves. Joseph De Maistre. On Russia in 1811
You show me a capitalist, I'll show you a bloodsucker. Malcolm X
A break in the established order is never the work of chance. It is the outcome of a man's resolve to turn life to account. Andre Malraux
The path that leads from moral standards to political activity is strewn with our dead selves. Andre Malraux
War is only a cowardly escape from the problems of peace. Thomas Mann
The ideal must be high; the purpose strong, worthy and true, or the life will be a failure. Orison Swett Marden
If you have one strong idea, you can't help repeating it and embroidering it. Sometimes I think that authors should write one book and then be put in a gas chamber. John Marquand
I know a fellow who's as broke as the Ten Commandments. John Marquand
Publishing a volume of verse is like dropping a rose petal down the Grand Canyon and waiting for the echo. Don Marquis
If you want to get rich from writing, write the sort of thing that's read by persons who move their lips when they're reading to themselves. Don Marquis
An idea isn't responsible for the people who believe in it. Don Marquis
When a man tells you that he got rich through hard work, ask him WHOSE. Don Marquis
A cult is a religion with no political power. Thomas Wolfe
Early in life I had to choose between arrogance and hypocritical humility. I chose honest arrogance and have seen no occasion to change. Frank Lloyd Wright
I know the price of success - dedication, hard work and an unremitting devotion to the things you want to see happen. Frank Lloyd Wright
The truth is more important than the facts. Frank Lloyd Wright
The only thing wrong with architecture is architects. Frank Lloyd Wright
Too low they build who build beneath the stars. Edward Young
What ardently we wish, we soon believe. Edward Young
It is difficult to retain the knowledge one has acquired, without putting it into practice. Pliny the Younger
He is either dead or teaching school. Zenobius
What I want to do is to make people laugh so that they'll see things seriously. William Zinsser
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