Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Johann WolfgangGoethetə/; German: ; 28 August 1749 – 22 March 1832) was a German writer and statesman. His body of work includes epic and lyric poetry written in a variety of metres and styles; prose and verse dramas; memoirs; an autobiography; literary and aesthetic criticism; treatises on botany, anatomy, and colour; and four novels. In addition, numerous literary and scientific fragments, more than 10,000 letters, and nearly 3,000 drawings by him exist...
NationalityGerman
ProfessionPoet
Date of Birth28 August 1749
CountryGermany
If thou wouldst hear what seemly is and fit, inquire of noble woman; they can tell, who in life's common usage hold their place by graceful deed and aptly chosen word.
Wisdom is only found in truth. [Ger., Die Weisheit ist nur in der Wahrheit.]
The mortal race is far too weak not to grow dizzy on unwonted brights. [Ger., Das sterbliche Geschlecht ist viel zu schwach In ungewohnter Hohe nicht zu schwindeln.]
The shudder of awe is humanity's highest faculty, Even though this world is forever altering its values.
Our virtues and view spring from one root.
A vain man can never be altogether rude. Desirous as he is of pleasing, he fashions his manners after those of others.
Truth is a torch, but a terrific one; therefore we all try to reach it with closed eyes, lest we should be scorched.
There is but one poetry,--true poetry.
The trouble is small, the fun is great. [Ger., Die Muh'ist klein, der Spass ist gross.]
Care is taken that trees do not grow into the sky. [Ger., Es ist dafur gesorgt, dass die Baume nicht in den Himmel wachsen.]
The smallest hair throws its shadow. [Ger., Das kleinste Harr wirft seinen Schatten.]
The present is a powerful deity. [Ger., Die Gegenwart ist eine machtige Gottin.]
My inheritance how lordly wide and fair; Time is my fair seed-field, to Time I'm heir.
Who can think wise or stupid things at all that were not thought already in the past. [Ger., Wer kann was Dummes, wer was Kluges denken, Das nicht die Vorwelt schon gedacht.]