Publilius Syrus
Publilius Syrus
Publilius Syrus, was a Latin writer, best known for his sententiae. He was a Syrian who was brought as a slave to Italy, but by his wit and talent he won the favour of his master, who freed and educated him. Publilius' name, due to early medieval palatalization of 'l' between two 'i's, is often presented by manuscriptsin corrupt form as 'Publius'...
NationalityRoman
ProfessionWriter
fire strategy divides
Divide the fire, and you will the sooner put it out.
yield venus seduction
Venus yields to caresses, not to compulsion.
sleep ill wells
He sleeps well who knows not that he sleeps ill.
humble giving unity
Union gives strength to the humble.
mind black looks
A suspicious mind always looks on the black side of things.
littles too-much unhappiness
The wretched reflect either too much or too little.
littles vices needs
The little vices of the great must needs be accounted very great.
wisdom
Wisdom had rather be buffeted than not listened to.
grief unhappy language
Who would recognize the unhappy if grief had no language?
missing aim severity
Excessive severity misses its own aim.
add reputation easier
It is easier to add to a great reputation than to get it.
love wise being-wise
A god could hardly love and be wise.
love anger-love
In love, anger is always false.
strong habit very-strong
The power of habit is very strong.