Report says that you, Fidentinus, recite my compositions in public as if they were your own. If you allow them to be called mine, I will send you my verses gratis; if you wish them to be called yours, pray buy them, that they may be mine no longer.

Marcus Valerius Martial

Marcus Valerius Martial

Related Quotes

Since your legs, Phoebus, resemble the horns of the moon, you might bathe your feet in a cornucopia.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

Never think of leaving perfumes or wine to your heir. Administer these yourself, and let him have your money.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

See how the mountain goat hangs from the summit of the cliff; you would expect it to fall; it is merely showing its contempt for the dogs.

— Marcus Valerius Martial

When to secure your bald pate from the weather, You lately wore a cape of black neats' leather; He was a very wag, who to you said, "Why do you wear your slippers on your head?"

— Marcus Valerius Martial

You ask for lively epigrams, and propose lifeless subjects. What can I do, Caecilianus? You expect Hyblaen or Hymethian honey to be produced, and yet offer the Attic bee nothing but Corsican thyme?

— Marcus Valerius Martial