That thirst (for applause) if the last infirmity of noble minds, is also the first infirmity of weak ones

Popular applause veers with the wind.

Applause that comes thundering with such force you might think the audience merely suffers the music as an excuse for its ovations.

In the vain laughter of folly wisdom hears half its applause.

We believe that the applause of silence is the only kind that counts.

Applause is the spur of noble minds, the end and aim of weak ones.