A Jesuit philosopher from 17th century Spain whose life lessons I will read and re-read as long as I am alive. His aphorisms are said to have influenced Nietzsche, Churchill, and Schopenhauer, and I can see why.

I read The Pocket Oracle in Korean translation, which was much better then this English translation. I give 6 stars to Gracian's words, 4 stars to this particular edition of the book.

Two kinds to pay attention to
- Metaphysics
- Appearance
And how to manage both, in order to become a prudent human being.

- All the wisdom in the world originates from restraint.
- A prudent person will hide merits that a typical person would flaunt.
- Seal your tendencies
- One's composure reveals the shape of one's soul
- No trick is more ingenious than the pretense of absolute ignorance.

I see these five jotted down on my note. The translation is mine, from Korean to English.