Johann Wolfgang von Goethe Quotes

Letters are among the most significant memorial a person can leave behind them.

There are only two lasting bequests we can hope to give our children. One of these is roots, the other, wings.

In the realm of ideas everything depends on enthusiasm… in the real world all rests on perseverance.

We usually lose today, because there has been a yesterday, and tomorrow is coming.

Magic is believing in yourself, if you can do that, you can make anything happen.

Dream no small dreams for they have no power to move the hearts of men.

Love and desire are the spirit’s wings to great deeds.

Do not give in too much to feelings. A overly sensitive heart is an unhappy possession on this shaky earth.

Nature knows no pause in progress and development, and attaches her curse on all inaction.

I think that I am better than the people who are trying to reform me.

Music is either sacred or secular. The sacred agrees with its dignity, and here has its greatest effect on life, an effect that remains the same through all ages and epochs. Secular music should be cheerful throughout.

A correct answer is like an affectionate kiss.

Common sense is the genius of humanity.

At the moment of commitment the entire universe conspires to assist you.

This is the highest wisdom that I own; freedom and life are earned by those alone who conquer them each day anew.

The biggest problem with every art is by the use of appearance to create a loftier reality.

I can tell you, honest friend, what to believe: believe life; it teaches better that book or orator.