Men keep their engagements when it is an advantage to both parties not to break them.
SOLONMen keep their engagements when it is an advantage to both parties not to break them.
SOLONLet no man be called happy before his death. Till then, he is not happy, only lucky.
SOLONHonors achieved far exceed those that are created.
SOLONMen keep agreements when it is to the advantage of neither to break them.
SOLONWatch well each separate citizen, Lest having in his heart of hearts A secret spear, one still may come Saluting you with cheerful face, And utter with a double tongue The feigned good wishes of his wary mind.
SOLONSeek to learn constantly while you live; do not wait in the faith that old age by itself will bring wisdom.
SOLONI grow old, ever learning many things.
SOLONLaws are like spider’s webs: If some poor weak creature comes up against them, it is caught; but a big one can break through and get away.
SOLONNo more good must be attempted than the nation can bear.
SOLONIn the ideal State laws are few and simple, because they have been derived from certainties. In the corrupt State laws are many and confused, because they have been derived from uncertainties.
SOLONRule, after you have first learned to submit to rule.
SOLONSociety is well governed when its people obey the magistrates, and the magistrates obey the law.
SOLONIn all things that you do, consider the end.
SOLONNo fool can be silent at a feast.
SOLONConsider your honour, as a gentleman, of more weight than an oath.
SOLONIf through your vices you afflicted are, Lay not the blame of your distress on God; You made your rulers mighty, gave them guards, So now you groan ‘neath slavery’s heavy rod.
SOLON