One thing, however, I must premise, that without the assistance of natural capacity, rules and precepts are of no efficacy.
QUINTILIANOne thing, however, I must premise, that without the assistance of natural capacity, rules and precepts are of no efficacy.
QUINTILIANWhile we ponder when to begin, it becomes too late to do.
QUINTILIANAlthough virtue receives some of its excellencies from nature, yet it is perfected by education.
QUINTILIANIn almost everything, experience is more valuable than precept.
QUINTILIANIt seldom happens that a premature shoot of genius ever arrives at maturity.
QUINTILIANMedicine for the dead is too late.
QUINTILIANThere is no one who would not rather appear to know than to be taught.
QUINTILIANMen, even when alone, lighten their labors by song, however rude it may be.
QUINTILIANA man who tries to surpass another may perhaps succeed in equaling in not actually surpassing him, but one who merely follows can never quite come up with him: a follower, necessarily, is always behind.
QUINTILIANA mediocre speech supported by all the power of delivery will be more impressive than the best speech unaccompanied by such power.
QUINTILIANA liar should have a good memory.
QUINTILIANVirtue, though she gets her beginning from nature, yet receives her finishing touches from learning.
QUINTILIANIt is easier to do many things than to do one thing continuously for a long time.
QUINTILIANWhere evil habits are once settled, they are more easily broken than mended.
QUINTILIANWrite quickly and you will never write well; write well, and you will soon write quickly.
QUINTILIANThe soul languishing in obscurity contracts a kind of rust, or abandons itself to the chimera of presumption; for it is natural for it to acquire something, even when separated from any one.
QUINTILIAN