Quotes from Theognis

I will blame no enemy that is a good man, nor yet praise a friend that is bad

Adopt the character of the twisting octopus, which takes on the appearance of the nearby rock. Now follow in this direction, now turn a different hue.

The best of all things for earthly men is not to be born and not to see the beams of the bright sun; but if born, then as quickly as possible to pass the gates of Hades, and to lie deep buried.

Even to a wicked man a divinity gives wealth, Cyrnus, but to few men comes the gift of excellence.

Bright youth passes swiftly as a thought.

Surfeit begets insolence, when prosperity comes to a bad man.

One finds many companions for food and drink, but in a serious business a man's companions are very few.

No man takes with him to Hades all his exceeding wealth.