Marcus Valerius Martial

Rarity gives a charm; so early fruits and winter roses are the most prized; and coyness sets off an extravagant mistress, while the door always open tempts no suitor.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

Why do strong arms fatigue themselves with frivolous dumbbells? To dig a vineyard is worthier exercise for men.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

I do not like the man who squanders life for fame; give me the man who living makes a name.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

If fame is to come only after death, I am in no hurry for it.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

Conceal a flaw, and the world will imagine the worst.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

Glory comes too late, after one as been reduced to ashes.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

Glory paid to our ashes comes too late.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

Be content to be what you are, and prefer nothing to it, and do not fear or wish for your last day.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

You give me nothing during your life, but you promise to provide for me at your death. If you are not a fool, you know what I wish for!

— Marcus Valerius Martial

There is no living with thee, nor without thee.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

I would not miss your face, your neck, your hands, your limbs, your bosom and certain other of your charms. Indeed, not to become boring by naming them all, I could do without you, Chloe, altogether.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

If you want him to mourn, you had best leave him nothing.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

To be able to look back upon one's past life with satisfaction is to live twice.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

That spot of earth has special charms for me, in which a limited income produces happiness, and moderate wealth abundance.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

Fortune gives too much to many, enough to none.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

Geschenke sind wie Angelhaken

— Marcus Valerius Martial