Marcus Valerius Martial

Rarity gives a charm; so early fruits and winter roses are the most prized; and coyness sets off an extravagant read more

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.

While an ant was wandering under the shade of the tree of
Phaeton, a drop of amber enveloped the read more

While an ant was wandering under the shade of the tree of
Phaeton, a drop of amber enveloped the tiny insect; thus she, who
in life was disregarded, became precious by death.

You crystal break, for fear of breaking it:
Careless and careful hands like faults commit.

You crystal break, for fear of breaking it:
Careless and careful hands like faults commit.

What's this that myrrh doth still smell in thy kiss,
And that with thee no other odour is?
read more

What's this that myrrh doth still smell in thy kiss,
And that with thee no other odour is?
'Tis doubt, my Postumus, he that doth smell
So sweetly always, smells not very well.

Fortune gives too much to many, enough to none.
[Lat., Fortuna multis dat nimis, satis nulli.]

Fortune gives too much to many, enough to none.
[Lat., Fortuna multis dat nimis, satis nulli.]