At times truth may not seem probable.

- Nicolas Boileau-Despreaux

Whate'er is well conceived is clearly said, And the words to say it flow with ease.

- Nicolas Boileau-Despreaux

Hasten slowly, and without losing heart, put your work twenty times upon the anvil. [Fr., Hatez-vous lentement; et, sans perdre courage, Vingt fois s…

- Nicolas Boileau-Despreaux

Attach yourself to those who advise you rather than praise you.

- Nicolas Boileau-Despreaux

Of all the animals which fly in the air, walk on the land, or swim in the sea, from Paris to Peru, from Japan to Rome, the most foolish animal in my …

- Nicolas Boileau-Despreaux

Who is content with nothing possesses all things.

- Nicolas Boileau-Despreaux

A fop sometimes gives important advice.

- Nicolas Boileau-Despreaux

The world is full of fools; and he who would not wish to see one, must not only shut himself up alone, but must also break his looking-glass.

- Nicolas Boileau-Despreaux

Happy who in his verse can gently steer, From grave to light, from pleasant to severe.

- Nicolas Boileau-Despreaux