Architects and painters know precisely what they are about as long as they deal with material phenomena. ... But when they come to the aesthetics of their work, when they aim at a particular effect on the mind or on the senses, the rules dissolve into nothing but vague ideas.
Attribution disputed; shown as originally published.
Rules still guide basics.
Everything in war is simple, but the simplest thing is difficult.
Modern wars are seldom fought without hatred between nations; this serves more or less as a substitute for hatred between individuals.
...self-reliance is the best defence against the pressures of the moment.
What has pleased, and continues to please, is likely to please again: hence are derived the rules of art, and on this immoveable foundation they must ever stan…
Everything about Florence seems to be coloured with a mild violet, like diluted wine.
My work is a game, a very serious game.