On the Callous Nature of Gods

As flies to wanton boys are we to the gods; they kill us for their sport.

From King Lear, William Shakespear

On Self-Examination

The Problem with Introspection is that it has no end.

Philip K. Dick

On Changing Government

"People always have the kind of government they want. When they want change, they must change it."

From The Weapon Shop, A.E. van Vogt

On One Sound Belch

Two hours of loose philosophizing will never tilt the scale against the worth of one sound belch.

From Jack Vance, Cugel's Saga (Dying Earth book III)

On Deeds Forgotten

When the sun goes out, all deeds, significant or not, will be forgotten together.

From Jack Vance, Cugel's Saga (Dying Earth book III)

On Sea Worms

"The worm is a familiar of the sea! It is wise, though it uses six concepts only: sun, wave, wind, horizon, dark deep, faithful direction, hunger, and satiation … Yes, Lankwiler? Why are you counting on your fingers?”

“Sir, it is no great matter.”

From Jack Vance, Cugel's Saga (Dying Earth book III)

On Perfection, Past and Future

"There are many legends which say the past was perfect or that the future will be perfect. I have seen many pasts and many futures. None of them was perfect, my friend."

From Michael Moorcock, The Queen of Swords