James Thomson

Peace is the happy natural state of man war is corruption and disgrace.

But who can paint like Nature? Can imagination boast, amid its gay creation, hues like hers?

That which makes people dissatisfied with their condition, is the chimerical idea they form of the happiness of others.

Health is the vital principle of bliss, and exercise, of health.

More firm and sure the hand of courage strikes, when it obeys the watchful eye of caution.

I know no subject more elevating, more amazing, more ready to the poetical enthusiasm, the philosophical reflection, and the moral sentiment than the works of nature. Where can we meet such variety, such beauty, such magnificence?