The Maxim (n.) is the great paradox of literature, the imperishable in the midst of change, the food that is always in season, like salt - though, unlike salt, it never loses its savor.
The Maxim (n.) is, if good, too hard for the teeth of time and whole millennia cannot consume it, even though it serves to nourish every age.
The Maxim (n.) finds its worst readers in the author's friends, who trace every general observation back to the particular event — and get only the satisfaction of vulgar curiosity.
The Maxim (n.) that is good is too hard for the teeth of time: the imperishable amid change, food always in season like salt — though, unlike salt, it never loses its savour.
Maxim (n.) readers (n.) are like admirers of cameos: they praise because they cannot love, are quick to admire and quicker to go away.