By necessity, by proclivity, and by delight, we all quote. In fact it is as difficult to appropriate the thoughts read more

By necessity, by proclivity, and by delight, we all quote. In fact it is as difficult to appropriate the thoughts of others as it is to invent.

Necessity is the mother of invention, it is true, but its father is creativity, and knowledge is the midwife

Necessity is the mother of invention, it is true, but its father is creativity, and knowledge is the midwife

It is not necessary for the public to know whether I am joking or
whether I am serious, just read more

It is not necessary for the public to know whether I am joking or
whether I am serious, just as it is not necessary for me to know
it myself.

It is in these useless and superfluous things that I am rich and
happy.

It is in these useless and superfluous things that I am rich and
happy.

Necessity makes even the timid brave.
[Lat., Necessitas etiam timidos fortes facit.]

Necessity makes even the timid brave.
[Lat., Necessitas etiam timidos fortes facit.]

So spake the Fiend, and with necessity,
The tyrant's plea, excused his devilish deed.

So spake the Fiend, and with necessity,
The tyrant's plea, excused his devilish deed.

Necessity is the author of change

Necessity is the author of change

Necessity--thou best of peacemakers,
As well as surest prompter of invention.

Necessity--thou best of peacemakers,
As well as surest prompter of invention.

Omission to do what is necessary
Seals a commission to a blank of danger;
And danger, like read more

Omission to do what is necessary
Seals a commission to a blank of danger;
And danger, like an ague, subtly taints
Even then when we sit idly in the sun.