Publilius Syrus
Publilius Syrus
Publilius Syrus, was a Latin writer, best known for his sententiae. He was a Syrian who was brought as a slave to Italy, but by his wit and talent he won the favour of his master, who freed and educated him. Publilius' name, due to early medieval palatalization of 'l' between two 'i's, is often presented by manuscriptsin corrupt form as 'Publius'...
NationalityRoman
ProfessionWriter
entrepreneur arena plans
The gladiator lays his plans after he enters the arena.
favors return comeback
The person who receives the most favors is the one who knows how to return them.
wise latin complicated-relationship
The gods never let us love and be wise at the same time.
journey length companion
A pleasant companion reduces the length of the journey.
silent
I have often regretted having spoken, never having kept silent
secret delight pleasure
There is more of fear than delight in a secret pleasure.
excess argument truth-is
In excess altercation, truth is lost.
favour grants asks
He who will not grant a favour has no right to ask one.
successful men enemy
It is a most miserable lot to be without an enemy. [No man can be successful without being envied and hated.]
loss reputation should
That should be regarded as a loss, which is won at the expense of our reputation.
remember now-and-then wells
It is as well now and then not to remember all we know.
folly avoided
It is folly to fear what cannot be avoided.
ears easy accusation
It is well not to lend too easy an ear to accusations.
glasses break fortune
Fortune is like glass; she breaks when she is brightest.