May quotes

May

9.1K quotes on this topic — from poets, philosophers, and thinkers across history.

9.1K quotes

Explore further

Browse quotes that often appear alongside may — connected by shared ideas and recurring themes.

Quote collection

May quotes (page 14 of 454)

Follow a thought to its author, or read the full quote page.

Adam Smith Philosopher, Economist
May

"Consumption is the sole end and purpose of all production; and the interest of the producer ought to be attended to only so far as it may be necessary for promoting that of the consumer. The maxim is so perfectly self-evident that it would be absurd to attempt to prove it. But in the mercantile system the interest of the consumer is almost constantly sacrificed to that of the producer; and it seems to consider production, and not consumption, as the ultimate end and object of all industry and commerce."

Read quote 30 likes
Dwight D. Eisenhower Military Leader, Politician
May

"And now, as in no other age, we seek it [peace] because we have been warned, by the power of modern weapons, that peace may be the only climate possible for human life itself."

Read quote 30 likes
Marie-Louise von Franz Psychologist, Author
May

"The passionate reactions of people to a painting, the exclamation, 'Oh, this is wonderful,' may, even if meant in a positive way, entirely destroy the chiaroscuro, the mystical hidden weaving of fantasy which the artist needs."

Read quote 30 likes
Dwight D. Eisenhower Military Leader, Politician
May

"May we grow in strength — without pride in self. May we, in our dealings with all peoples of the earth, ever speak truth and serve justice. And so shall America — in the sight of all men of good will — prove true to the honorable purposes that bind and rule us as a people in all this time of trial through which we pass."

Read quote 29 likes
Maya Angelou Poet, Memoirist
May

"We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated. It may even be necessary to encounter the defeat, so that we can know who we are."

Read quote 29 likes
Edgar Allan Poe Poet, Writer
May

"It may well be doubted whether human ingenuity can construct an enigma... which human ingenuity may not, by proper application, resolve."

Read quote 28 likes
Benjamin Graham Investor, Author
May

"Have the courage of your knowledge and experience. If you have formed a conclusion from the facts and if you know your judgment is sound, act on it – even though others may hesitate or differ."

Read quote 28 likes
Anton Chekhov Playwright, Short Story Writer
May

"If there's any illness for which people offer many remedies, you may be sure that particular illness is incurable, I think."

Read quote 28 likes
Ruskin Bond Author
May

"Hapiness is as exclusive as a butterfly, and you must never pursue it. If you stay very still, it may come and settle on your hand. But only briefly. Savour those moments, for they will not come in your way very often."

Read quote 28 likes