THE INKLINGO LANGUAGE GUIDES
60 German Quotes About Life, Love & Wisdom
Find 60 short German quotes about life, love, wisdom and determination, with English translations, named authors and a traceable source for every line. The quick list offers concise choices for a caption, message or moment of reflection; context notes explain a character’s voice or an older expression.
Short quotes to start with
- Was mich nicht umbringt, macht mich stärker.What does not kill me makes me stronger.
- Es irrt der Mensch, solang er strebt.People err as long as they strive.
- Ohne Musik wäre das Leben ein Irrtum.Without music, life would be a mistake.
- Vertrauen ist Mut, und Treue ist Kraft.Trust is courage, and loyalty is strength.
- Wer Geduld sagt, sagt Mut, Ausdauer, Kraft.To say patience is to say courage, perseverance and strength.
- Wer nichts weiß, muss alles glauben.Someone who knows nothing has to believe everything.
- Die Leidenschaft flieht, die Liebe muss bleiben.Passion flees; love must remain.
- Verweile doch! du bist so schön!Stay a while! You are so beautiful!
- Nur die ergangenen Gedanken haben Wert.Only thoughts reached while walking have value.
- Die Jahre fliehen pfeilgeschwind.The years fly as swiftly as arrows.
German Quotes About Life and Time
Read these lines in their original setting: a narrator or character may express a troubled view, not simple advice.
Das macht nicht , wie man spricht, es uns nur als wahre Kinder.
Age does not make us childish, as people say; it merely finds us still true children.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Vorspiel auf dem Theater
The Comic Person reflects playfully on age.
Source noteEs irrt der Mensch, solang er strebt.
People err as long as they strive.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Prolog im Himmel
The Lord speaks in the heavenly prologue; striving includes error.
Source noteHier bin ich Mensch, hier darf ich's sein.
Here I am human; here I may be so.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Vor dem Tor
Among the Easter crowd, Faust feels released from his study.
Source noteZwei Seelen , ach! in meiner Brust.
Two souls, alas, live within my breast.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Vor dem Tor
Faust describes his divided longing for earthly and higher life.
Source noteVerweile doch! du bist so !
Stay a while! You are so beautiful!
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Studierzimmer, second scene
Faust names the words that would mark the losing condition of his wager.
Source noteWas mich nicht umbringt, macht mich .
What does not kill me makes me stronger.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §8
A first-person philosophical provocation, not a claim that every hardship benefits everyone.
Source noteHat man sein Warum? des , so verträgt man sich mit jedem Wie?
If one has one’s why of life, one can come to terms with almost any how.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §12
The selected sentence links purpose with endurance.
Source notePosthume Menschen — ich zum — werden schlechter verstanden als zeitgemäße, aber gehört.
Posthumous people, myself for example, are understood less well than timely ones, but heard better.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §15
Nietzsche imagines writing for readers after his own time.
Source noteMan begeht eine Übereilung .
One rarely commits a single rash act by itself.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §30
The rest of the aphorism describes an excessive correction after the first mistake.
Source noteOhne wäre das ein .
Without music, life would be a mistake.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §33
The line occurs in a reflection on how little happiness can require.
Source noteDie fliehen pfeilgeschwind.
The years fly as swiftly as arrows.
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 57
The poem moves from childhood toward adulthood.
Source noteDie verblüht, die Frucht muss treiben.
The flower fades; the fruit must grow.
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 104–105
A growth image follows the reflection on marriage.
Source noteSo lehre sie, dass nichts bestehet, dass alles Irdische verhallt.
So may it teach that nothing endures, that all earthly things fade away.
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 421–422
The fading bell sound becomes an image of mortality.
Source noteExplore these words: Time & dates (flashcards) · Age & life stages (flashcards) · Personality (flashcards)
Put these words into context with a story at your level.
Read German storiesGerman Quotes About Love
These lines include affection, longing and skepticism. The context explains whose voice is speaking.
Mein Fräulein, darf ich wagen, meinen und Geleit Ihr anzutragen?
My beautiful young lady, may I dare to offer you my arm and company?
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Straße
Faust approaches Margarete with formal courtship language.
Source noteMeine Ruh ist hin, mein Herz ist .
My peace is gone; my heart is heavy.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Gretchens Stube
Gretchen speaks in the spinning-wheel song about consuming longing.
Source noteGefühl alles; Schall und .
Feeling is everything; a name is sound and smoke.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Marthens Garten
Faust answers Gretchen’s religious question with an appeal to feeling.
Source noteErfüll davon dein Herz, so es ist.
Fill your heart with it, however great it is.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Marthens Garten
Faust asks Gretchen to experience an all-embracing feeling in his account of faith.
Source noteDrum prüfe, wer sich ewig bindet, ob sich das Herz zum Herzen findet!
So let whoever binds themselves forever test whether heart meets heart.
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 91–92
The casting alloy becomes an image for marriage.
Source noteDie Leidenschaft flieht, die Liebe muss bleiben.
Passion flees; love must remain.
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 102–103
The poem contrasts initial passion with lasting commitment.
Source noteHolder Friede, süße Eintracht, weilet, weilet freundlich über dieser Stadt!
Gentle peace, sweet harmony, linger kindly over this town!
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 327–330
The speaker hopes civic life will be spared war.
Source noteConcordia soll ihr sein, zur Eintracht, zu herzinnigem Vereine versammle sie die liebende Gemeine.
Concordia shall be its name; may it gather the loving community in harmony and heartfelt union.
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 398–400
The finished bell is named for concord.
Source noteDie meisten Menschen mehr Liebe, als sie verdienen.
Most people need more love than they deserve.
— Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach (1830–1916), Aphorismen, first hundred, 37
A concise appeal to generosity beyond strict deserving.
Source noteExplore these words: Body parts (flashcards) · Emotions & feelings (flashcards)
Put these words into context with a story at your level.
Read German storiesGerman Quotes About Friendship and Trust
Two short reflections on loyalty and the value of a true friend.
ist , und Treue ist Kraft.
Trust is courage, and loyalty is strength.
— Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach (1830–1916), Aphorismen, first hundred, 5
Mut modernizes the source spelling Muth. A short thought about the strength needed to trust.
Source noteEin wahrer trägt mehr zu unserem bei, als tausend Feinde zu unserem Unglück.
One true friend adds more to our happiness than a thousand enemies add to our unhappiness.
— Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach (1830–1916), Aphorismen, second hundred, 89
The comparison places friendship above fear of enemies.
Source noteExplore these words: Emotions & feelings (flashcards) · Personality (flashcards) · Family & relationships (flashcards)
Put these words into context with a story at your level.
Read German storiesGerman Quotes About Wisdom
A memorable sentence can be an argument or a provocation. Consider what the author is asking the reader to question.
Ein guter Mensch, in seinem dunkeln Drange, ist sich des rechten wohl bewusst.
A good person, even in an obscure urge, is aware of the right path.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Prolog im Himmel
The Lord expresses confidence in Faust despite his confusion.
Source noteDa ich nun, ich Tor! Und bin so klug als wie .
Here I stand, a poor fool, and am as wise as I was before.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Nacht
Faust despairs after years of scholarly study.
Source noteDass ich erkenne, was die Welt im Innersten zusammenhält.
That I may know what holds the world together at its core.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Nacht
This clause states the knowledge Faust longs to gain.
Source noteErquickung hast du nicht gewonnen, wenn sie dir nicht aus eigner Seele quillt.
You have gained no refreshment unless it wells up from your own soul.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Nacht
Faust challenges Wagner’s dependence on learned material.
Source noteIch bin der Geist, der verneint!
I am the spirit that always denies!
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Studierzimmer, first scene
Mephistopheles describes his own role; this is not Goethe speaking directly.
Source noteDenn eben wo Begriffe , da stellt ein zur rechten Zeit sich ein.
Precisely where concepts are missing, a word arrives at the right moment.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Studierzimmer, student episode
Mephistopheles mocks empty academic language.
Source noteGrau, teurer Freund, ist alle , und grün des goldner .
All theory is grey, dear friend, and life’s golden tree is green.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Studierzimmer, student episode
Mephistopheles is tempting a student away from serious study; the speaker matters.
Source noteGewöhnlich glaubt der Mensch, wenn er nur hört, es müsse sich dabei doch auch was denken lassen.
People generally believe that if they hear words, there must be something to think behind them.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Hexenküche
Mephistopheles ridicules the witch’s opaque ritual language.
Source noteAlle ist . — Ist das nicht zwiefach eine ?
All truth is simple. Is that not doubly a lie?
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §4
The first sentence is a slogan Nietzsche immediately challenges.
Source noteDie Weisheit zieht auch der Erkenntnis Grenzen.
Wisdom sets limits even to knowledge.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §5
The sentence follows Nietzsche’s declaration that he chooses not to know many things.
Source noteWer seinen Willen nicht in die Dinge zu legen weiß, der einen Sinn noch hinein.
Whoever cannot put their will into things at least puts a meaning into them.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §18
The following clause connects imposed meaning with belief in an existing will.
Source noteIch misstraue allen Systematikern und gehe ihnen aus dem .
I distrust all system-builders and keep out of their way.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §26
Nietzsche voices his suspicion of closed philosophical systems.
Source noteDer Psychologe muss von sich absehn, um überhaupt zu sehn.
The psychologist must look away from themselves in order to see at all.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §35
The aphorism warns against mistaking one’s own shadow for the object studied.
Source noteBist du ? oder nur ein Schauspieler?
Are you genuine, or merely an actor?
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §38
The opening of Nietzsche’s second question of conscience.
Source noteJedoch der schrecklichste der Schrecken, das ist der Mensch in seinem Wahn.
Yet the most terrible of terrors is the human being in delusion.
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 381–382
The poem’s account of destructive upheaval reaches a warning about people.
Source noteWer nichts , muss alles glauben.
Someone who knows nothing has to believe everything.
— Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach (1830–1916), Aphorismen, second hundred, 6
Modern spelling muss replaces muß; the line favors knowledge over unexamined claims.
Source noteExplore these words: Directions & position (flashcards) · Time & dates (flashcards) · Books & writing (flashcards)
Put these words into context with a story at your level.
Read German storiesGerman Quotes for Motivation and Perseverance
Read the tension between words and action rather than treating every dramatic speech as an author’s personal belief.
Was glänzt, ist für den Augenblick geboren; das bleibt der Nachwelt unverloren.
What glitters is born for the moment; what is genuine is not lost to posterity.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Vorspiel auf dem Theater
The Poet distinguishes lasting art from immediate applause.
Source noteWer vieles bringt, wird manchem etwas bringen.
Whoever offers much will offer something to many.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Vorspiel auf dem Theater
The Director favors a varied program that satisfies a broad audience.
Source noteDer sind genug gewechselt, lasst mich auch endlich Taten sehn!
Enough words have been exchanged; at last let me see deeds!
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Vorspiel auf dem Theater
The Director interrupts discussion to demand a performance.
Source noteWas du ererbt von deinen hast, erwirb es, um es zu besitzen.
What you inherited from your fathers, earn it in order to possess it.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Nacht
Faust reflects on inherited possessions and active understanding.
Source noteIm war die !
In the beginning was the deed!
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Studierzimmer, first scene
Faust arrives at his own reinterpretation while translating the opening of John’s Gospel.
Source noteUnd wenn ihr euch nur selbst vertraut, vertrauen euch die andern Seelen.
If you only trust yourselves, other souls will trust you.
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), Faust I (1808), Studierzimmer, student episode
Mephistopheles offers manipulative advice, not a neutral coaching slogan.
Source noteAuch der Mutigste von uns hat nur den zu dem, was er .
Even the bravest among us rarely has the courage for what they actually know.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §2
The aphorism separates knowing from facing what one knows.
Source noteHilf dir selber: dann hilft dir jedermann.
Help yourself: then everyone else will help you too.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §9
Nietzsche gives an ironic account of how assistance is offered.
Source noteNur die ergangenen haben Wert.
Only thoughts reached while walking have value.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §34
A provocative response to Flaubert’s preference for seated thinking and writing.
Source noteMan muss , was man und dass man .
One must know what one wants and that one wants.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §41
The fourth question of conscience considers following, leading or going alone.
Source noteVon der Stirne rinnen muss der .
Sweat must run hot from the brow.
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 5–6
The master calls the workers to physical effort.
Source noteZum , das wir bereiten, geziemt sich wohl ein .
A serious word is fitting for the work we solemnly prepare.
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 9–10
The poem joins a craft process with reflection on human life.
Source noteWenn gute Reden sie begleiten, dann fließt die Arbeit munter fort.
When good words accompany it, work flows cheerfully onward.
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 11–12
Speech and shared work are placed together.
Source noteArbeit ist des Bürgers Zierde, Segen ist der Mühe Preis.
Work is the citizen’s honor; blessing is effort’s reward.
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 323–324
The poem expresses its historical ideal of civic labor.
Source noteWer , , Ausdauer, Kraft.
To say patience is to say courage, perseverance and strength.
— Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach (1830–1916), Aphorismen, second hundred, 15
Mut modernizes Muth. Patience is presented as active strength.
Source noteMan muss das Gute tun, damit es in der Welt .
We must do good so that good exists in the world.
— Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach (1830–1916), Aphorismen, first hundred, 55
Modern spelling muss and tun replaces muß and thun. An appeal to put goodwill into action.
Source noteExplore these words: Books & writing (flashcards) · Personality (flashcards) · Time & dates (flashcards)
Put these words into context with a story at your level.
Read German storiesShort German Quotes for Captions
These compact lines are easy to remember. Keep the author and work with the quotation when sharing it.
Müßiggang ist aller Psychologie .
Idleness is the beginning of all psychology.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §1
An ironic variation on a familiar German proverb.
Source noteFormel meines Glücks: ein , ein Nein, eine , ein .
The formula of my happiness: a yes, a no, a straight line, a goal.
— Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900), Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §44
The closing aphorism is a compressed first-person credo.
Source noteDer Wahn ist kurz, die Reu ist lang.
Delusion is brief; regret is long.
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 93
A caution immediately following the marriage passage.
Source noteFriede sei ihr erst Geläute.
May peace be its first peal.
— Friedrich Schiller (1759–1805), Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 430
The poem closes by wishing peace for the bell’s first ringing.
Source noteExplore these words: Time & dates (flashcards) · Question words · Shapes, sizes & materials (flashcards)
Put these words into context with a story at your level.
Read German storiesGerman quotes: frequently asked questions
What makes these genuine German quotes?
Each selection names an author and a source work. They are passages from those works, not anonymous proverbs assigned a famous name.
Are all these quotations the author’s personal views?
No. A character’s speech belongs to that character and situation. The context note identifies the speaker or argument where that distinction matters.
Are the English translations literal?
They are our own translations, written to preserve the sense while remaining readable. Older vocabulary and compact wordplay sometimes need the context note.
Why does wording differ between editions?
Historical spelling, punctuation and editorial choices can differ. The work reference lets you compare the passage; this page lightly normalizes spelling without silently substituting a different quotation.
Can a proverb also be a literary quote?
Yes, a writer may use a traditional saying. Citation proves the wording appears in that work; it does not prove the writer invented the saying.
Which short quotes are good for captions?
Choose a line whose context matches what you mean, and include the author and work. The short-quotes section is a starting point, not a guarantee that every line is cheerful.
How can quotes help me learn the language?
Read one aloud, identify its central verb and compare the translation. Then read the surrounding passage or a story so the words have a wider setting.
Why are popular internet quotes missing?
A familiar attribution is not sufficient evidence. Lines without a traceable original-language source, and translated foreign sayings presented as native literary quotes, are omitted.
What is “a quote” in German?
For words repeated from a speaker or text, use “ein Zitat”; the plural is “Zitate.” In this guide, each literary quotation includes its author and source work so that you can read the surrounding passage.
Make these words part of your day
Explore German stories, listen along, and save vocabulary as you go.
Find a story at your levelSources and verification
English translations and examples were written for this guide. Source notes distinguish documented expressions, original practice sentences, and literary quotations. Literary excerpts retain the language of their original period.
- Goethe, Faust I, first-edition text (1808) — Proofread original text. Modernized spelling: e.g. That/Tat, Thor/Tor, seyn/sein; dramatic voices are identified.
- Nietzsche, Götzen-Dämmerung: Sprüche und Pfeile — Public-domain primary aphorisms numbered 1–44. Selected complete sentences are contextualized.
- Schiller, Das Lied von der Glocke, Musen-Almanach 1800 — Proofread original text with line numbers; historical civic and marital ideals remain situated in the poem.
- Ebner-Eschenbach, Gesammelte Schriften I, Aphorismen (1893) — Primary public-domain text; wording checked on 4 October 2026.
Source notes for all 60 entries
- Das Alter macht nicht kindisch, wie man spricht, es findet uns nur noch als wahre Kinder.: Faust I (1808), Vorspiel auf dem Theater. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Es irrt der Mensch, solang er strebt.: Faust I (1808), Prolog im Himmel. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Hier bin ich Mensch, hier darf ich's sein.: Faust I (1808), Vor dem Tor. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Zwei Seelen wohnen, ach! in meiner Brust.: Faust I (1808), Vor dem Tor. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Verweile doch! du bist so schön!: Faust I (1808), Studierzimmer, second scene. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Was mich nicht umbringt, macht mich stärker.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §8. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Hat man sein Warum? des Lebens, so verträgt man sich fast mit jedem Wie?: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §12. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Posthume Menschen — ich zum Beispiel — werden schlechter verstanden als zeitgemäße, aber besser gehört.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §15. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Man begeht selten eine Übereilung allein.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §30. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Ohne Musik wäre das Leben ein Irrtum.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §33. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Die Jahre fliehen pfeilgeschwind.: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 57. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]
- Die Blume verblüht, die Frucht muss treiben.: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 104–105. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]
- So lehre sie, dass nichts bestehet, dass alles Irdische verhallt.: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 421–422. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]
- Mein schönes Fräulein, darf ich wagen, meinen Arm und Geleit Ihr anzutragen?: Faust I (1808), Straße. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Meine Ruh ist hin, mein Herz ist schwer.: Faust I (1808), Gretchens Stube. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Gefühl ist alles; Name ist Schall und Rauch.: Faust I (1808), Marthens Garten. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Erfüll davon dein Herz, so groß es ist.: Faust I (1808), Marthens Garten. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Drum prüfe, wer sich ewig bindet, ob sich das Herz zum Herzen findet!: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 91–92. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]
- Die Leidenschaft flieht, die Liebe muss bleiben.: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 102–103. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]
- Holder Friede, süße Eintracht, weilet, weilet freundlich über dieser Stadt!: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 327–330. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]
- Concordia soll ihr Name sein, zur Eintracht, zu herzinnigem Vereine versammle sie die liebende Gemeine.: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 398–400. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]
- Die meisten Menschen brauchen mehr Liebe, als sie verdienen.: Aphorismen, first hundred, 37. Original text checked against the linked source; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling is lightly modernized where explicitly noted. [ebner]
- Vertrauen ist Mut, und Treue ist Kraft.: Aphorismen, first hundred, 5. Original text checked against the linked source; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling is lightly modernized where explicitly noted. [ebner]
- Ein wahrer Freund trägt mehr zu unserem Glück bei, als tausend Feinde zu unserem Unglück.: Aphorismen, second hundred, 89. Original text checked against the linked source; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling is lightly modernized where explicitly noted. [ebner]
- Ein guter Mensch, in seinem dunkeln Drange, ist sich des rechten Weges wohl bewusst.: Faust I (1808), Prolog im Himmel. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Da steh ich nun, ich armer Tor! Und bin so klug als wie zuvor.: Faust I (1808), Nacht. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Dass ich erkenne, was die Welt im Innersten zusammenhält.: Faust I (1808), Nacht. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Erquickung hast du nicht gewonnen, wenn sie dir nicht aus eigner Seele quillt.: Faust I (1808), Nacht. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Ich bin der Geist, der stets verneint!: Faust I (1808), Studierzimmer, first scene. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Denn eben wo Begriffe fehlen, da stellt ein Wort zur rechten Zeit sich ein.: Faust I (1808), Studierzimmer, student episode. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Grau, teurer Freund, ist alle Theorie, und grün des Lebens goldner Baum.: Faust I (1808), Studierzimmer, student episode. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Gewöhnlich glaubt der Mensch, wenn er nur Worte hört, es müsse sich dabei doch auch was denken lassen.: Faust I (1808), Hexenküche. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Alle Wahrheit ist einfach. — Ist das nicht zwiefach eine Lüge?: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §4. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Die Weisheit zieht auch der Erkenntnis Grenzen.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §5. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Wer seinen Willen nicht in die Dinge zu legen weiß, der legt wenigstens einen Sinn noch hinein.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §18. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Ich misstraue allen Systematikern und gehe ihnen aus dem Weg.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §26. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Der Psychologe muss von sich absehn, um überhaupt zu sehn.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §35. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Bist du echt? oder nur ein Schauspieler?: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §38. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Jedoch der schrecklichste der Schrecken, das ist der Mensch in seinem Wahn.: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 381–382. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]
- Wer nichts weiß, muss alles glauben.: Aphorismen, second hundred, 6. Original text checked against the linked source; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling is lightly modernized where explicitly noted. [ebner]
- Was glänzt, ist für den Augenblick geboren; das Echte bleibt der Nachwelt unverloren.: Faust I (1808), Vorspiel auf dem Theater. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Wer vieles bringt, wird manchem etwas bringen.: Faust I (1808), Vorspiel auf dem Theater. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Der Worte sind genug gewechselt, lasst mich auch endlich Taten sehn!: Faust I (1808), Vorspiel auf dem Theater. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Was du ererbt von deinen Vätern hast, erwirb es, um es zu besitzen.: Faust I (1808), Nacht. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Im Anfang war die Tat!: Faust I (1808), Studierzimmer, first scene. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Und wenn ihr euch nur selbst vertraut, vertrauen euch die andern Seelen.: Faust I (1808), Studierzimmer, student episode. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [faust]
- Auch der Mutigste von uns hat nur selten den Mut zu dem, was er eigentlich weiß.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §2. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Hilf dir selber: dann hilft dir noch jedermann.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §9. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Nur die ergangenen Gedanken haben Wert.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §34. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Man muss wissen, was man will und dass man will.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §41. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Von der Stirne heiß rinnen muss der Schweiß.: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 5–6. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]
- Zum Werke, das wir ernst bereiten, geziemt sich wohl ein ernstes Wort.: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 9–10. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]
- Wenn gute Reden sie begleiten, dann fließt die Arbeit munter fort.: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 11–12. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]
- Arbeit ist des Bürgers Zierde, Segen ist der Mühe Preis.: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 323–324. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]
- Wer Geduld sagt, sagt Mut, Ausdauer, Kraft.: Aphorismen, second hundred, 15. Original text checked against the linked source; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling is lightly modernized where explicitly noted. [ebner]
- Man muss das Gute tun, damit es in der Welt sei.: Aphorismen, first hundred, 55. Original text checked against the linked source; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling is lightly modernized where explicitly noted. [ebner]
- Müßiggang ist aller Psychologie Anfang.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §1. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Formel meines Glücks: ein Ja, ein Nein, eine gerade Linie, ein Ziel.: Götzen-Dämmerung (1889), Sprüche und Pfeile, §44. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [nietzsche]
- Der Wahn ist kurz, die Reu ist lang.: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 93. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]
- Friede sei ihr erst Geläute.: Das Lied von der Glocke (1799; Musen-Almanach 1800), lines 430. Original-language public-domain text; English translation by Inklingo. Historical spelling and punctuation are lightly normalized where noted in the page editorial note. [glocke]