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Quotes of the Day for 8 December 2003 - Horace

Quintus Horatius Flaccus was born on this day in 65 BC at Venusia, Italy to a freed slave. He was well educated but a cowardly soldier, his first book of poetry was published when he was 30. We know him as Horace. Here are a few quotes from his work - ending with what is probably his most famous line.

A jest often decides matters of importance more effectively and happily than seriousness.

Happy the man, and happy he alone,
  He who can call today his own;
He who secure within can say:
  Tomorrow do thy worst, for I have lived today.

Mingle some brief folly with your wisdom.

Once a word has been allowed to escape, it cannot be recalled.

Pale death knocks with impartial foot at poor men's hovels and king's palaces.

Whatever advice you give, be brief.

Carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero! (Seize the day, put little trust in tomorrow!)
     - All from Horace, 65 - 8 BC

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