Mason Cooley Quotes
1927–2002 United States
Mason Cooley (1927 – July 25, 2002) was an American literary academic and aphorist.
- United States
- Academics
- Educators
Also known as: Cooley, Mason
Random Mason Cooley quote
25 quotes
In an aphorism, aptness counts for more than truth.
Writing an upbeat aphorism is a temptation, but decorum forbids.
Every day begins with an act of courage and hope: getting out of bed.
City Aphorisms (1984)
Why do we never expect dull people to be rascals?
Lonely people keep up a ceaseless flow of commentary on themselves.
City Aphorisms (1984)
Scepticism is always a back road leading to some credo or other.
To gain a reputation for virtue, grieve over those you injure.
To be successful be ahead of your time, but only a little.
Wisdom cannot prevent a fall, but may cushion it.
People may show jealousy, but hide their envy.
The laughter of the aphorism is sometimes triumphant, but seldom carefree.
Cynicism formulates issues clearly, but only to dismiss them.
Advice is more agreeable in the mouth than in the ear.
When lying to someone, look him straight in the eye.
Ideology has shaped the very sofa on which I sit.
Timidity keeps me safe and sad in a narrow room.
Experience is a great spoiler of pleasures.
The nonsense that charms is close to sense.
Nonsense is socially OK, but not stupidity.
Cynicism is full of naive disappointments.