There is nothing so agonizing to the fine skin of vanity as the application of a rough truth.

There is nothing so agonizing to the fine skin of vanity as the application of a rough truth.

A long habit of not thinking a thing wrong gives it a superficial appearance of being right.

A long habit of not thinking a thing wrong gives it a superficial appearance of being right.

We understood
Her by her sight; her pure and eloquent blood
Spoke in her cheeks, and so read more

We understood
Her by her sight; her pure and eloquent blood
Spoke in her cheeks, and so distinctly wrought
That one might almost say her body thought.
- Dr. John Donne,

Style is the dress of thoughts; and let them be ever so just, if your style is homely, coarse, and read more

Style is the dress of thoughts; and let them be ever so just, if your style is homely, coarse, and vulgar, they will appear to as much disadvantage, and be as ill received, as your person, though ever so well-proportioned, would if dressed in rags, dirt, and tatters.

If I were two-faced, would I be wearing this one?

If I were two-faced, would I be wearing this one?

Even knowledge has to be in the fashion, and where it is not, it is wise to affect ignorance. - read more

Even knowledge has to be in the fashion, and where it is not, it is wise to affect ignorance. - The Art of Worldy Wisdom, 1647.

Know first who you are; and then adorn yourself accordingly.

Know first who you are; and then adorn yourself accordingly.

Style is not neutral; it gives moral directions.

Style is not neutral; it gives moral directions.

All that glisters is not gold.

All that glisters is not gold.