The Works of J. W. von Goethe/Volume 9/Proverbs ("A thousand flies did I at even slay")


PROVERBS.

A thousand flies did I at even slay,
Yet did one wake me at the break of day.

Who serves the public is a sorry beast;
He frets himself; no one thanks him the least.

Wouldst thou nothing useless buy,
Be sure the fairs you go not nigh.

I could no greater sorrow own
Than live in Paradise alone.