"Civilization is not by means an easy..." - Quote by Oscar Wilde

“Society, civilized society at least, is never very ready to believe anything to the detriment of those who are both rich and fascinating. It feels instinctively that manners are of more importance than morals, and, in its opinion, the highest respectability is of much less value than the possession of a good chef.”

“Vulgarity is simply the conduct of other people.”

“Moderation is a fatal thing. Nothing succeeds like excess.”

“In civilization, as in a southern latitude, man degenerates at length, and yields to the incursion of more northern tribes.”

“It is not possible for civilization to flow backwards while there is youth in the world. Youth may be headstrong, but it will advance it allotted length.”

“I rejoice that horses and steers have to be broken before they can be made the slaves of men, and that men themselves have some wild oats still left to sow before they become submissive members of society. Undoubtedly, all men are not equally fit subjects for civilization; and because the majority, like dogs and sheep, are tame by inherited disposition, this is no reason why the others should have their natures broken that they may be reduced to the same level.”

“The English never draw a line without blurring it.”

“When members of a society wish to secure that society's rich heritage they cherish their arts and respect their artists. The esteem with which we regard the multiple cultures offered in our country enhances our possibilities for healthy survival and continued social development.”

“They call it the Latin Quarter because nobody there is Latin and nobody has a quarter.”