Sentimentality is the emotional promiscuity of those who have no sentiment.

I don't think life is absurd. I think we are all here for a huge purpose. I think we shrink from the immensity of the purpose we are here for.

Ultimately a hero is a man who would argue with the gods$$$ and so awakens devils to contest his vision.

Whosoever desires constant success must change his conduct with the times.

He who is highly esteemed is not easily conspired against.

Never attempt to win by force what can be won by deception.

For he who innovates will have for his enemies all those who are well off under the existing order of things$$$ and only lukewarm supporters in those who might be better off under the new.

The first way to lose a state is to neglect the art of war; the first way to gain a state is to be skilled in the art of war.

Therefore any cruelty has to be executed at once$$$ so that the less it is tasted$$$ the less it offends; while benefits must be dispensed little by little$$$ so that they will be savored all the more.

A prince must not have any other object nor any other thought but war$$$ its institutions$$$ and its discipline; because that is the only art befitting one who commands.