is a collection of almost 500 aphorisms in the grand tradition of original thinkers. They encompass nearly all aspects of life, from birth to death, with mature perception and profound expression. These insights were not extracted from essays, but arose spontaneously from experience. As Henry Fielding stated in , a true author must have not only "a good share of learning," but must also know "the characters of men" from all walks of life. has read widely and deeply and has observed closely how we act and react in our daily lives. And through his clear vision we can see ourselves as we really are, with all pretenses stripped away.