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Home  »  The World’s Wit and Humor  »  Reflections

The World’s Wit and Humor: An Encyclopedia in 15 Volumes. 1906.

Marquis de Vauvenargues (1715–1747)

Reflections


WHEN a thought is too feeble to bear simple expression, it is better left unuttered.

There are few constant passions, though many sincere ones. Formerly men affected a false constancy, to-day they affect a false indifference. ’Tis all according to the fashion.

If you feel that it is some fault in yourself that prevents you from gaining the esteem of a certain person, then you are sure to hate him.

Certain fools, sitting together at table said, “We alone are good company.” And they believed each other.

We are less hurt by the contempt of fools than by the coldness of wise men.

Why believe that poverty improves a man’s morals?

A great man undertakes a great thing because it is great; a fool because he considers it easy.

Rogues are always surprised at honesty in others.