Wit is far more often a shield than a lance

Wit is far more often a shield than a lance

We grant, although he had much wit,
H' was very shy of using it,
As being loth read more

We grant, although he had much wit,
H' was very shy of using it,
As being loth to wear it out,
And therefore bore it not about;
Unless on holy days or so,
As men their best apparel do.

Wit is the clash and reconcilement of incongruities; the meeting
of extremes round a corner.

Wit is the clash and reconcilement of incongruities; the meeting
of extremes round a corner.

People who can't be witty exert themselves to be devout and affectionate.

People who can't be witty exert themselves to be devout and affectionate.

Wit is the sudden marriage of ideas which before their union were not perceived to have any relation.

Wit is the sudden marriage of ideas which before their union were not perceived to have any relation.

Humor is the only test of gravity, and gravity of humor; for a subject which will not bear raillery is read more

Humor is the only test of gravity, and gravity of humor; for a subject which will not bear raillery is suspicious, and a jest which will not bear serious examination is false wit.

Less judgment than wit, is more sail than ballast.

Less judgment than wit, is more sail than ballast.

Wit is cultured insolence.

Wit is cultured insolence.

Wit is the only wall between us and the dark.

Wit is the only wall between us and the dark.