John Lyly (c.1554–1606) was an English poet, dramatist, and writer of prose romances. He is considered the first English prose stylist to leave a lasting impression upon the language—he contributed to the development of dramatic prose dialogue in comedy.
Born in the Weald of Kent, Lyly earned a B.A. at Oxford’s Magdalen College in 1573. The English statesman William Cecil, 1st Baron Burghley gave Lyly a post of trust in his family circle, and Lyly became vice-master of St Paul’s Choristers.
Lyly’s digressive prose romance Euphues, in two parts—Euphues, The Anatomie of Wit (1578) and Euphues and His England (1580)—was received with immense approval. It led to the term ‘euphuism,’ referring to a contrived and exquisite language with elaborate similes and antitheses.
Lyly satirical pamphlet Pap with a Hatchet (1589) defended the Anglican bishops in the Martin Marprelate controversy. Lyly became a Member of Parliament for Aylesbury and Appleby 1597–1601.
Lyly’s other works include the comedy The Woman in the Moon (1583,) Campaspe (1584,) Sapho and Phao (1584,) Endimion (1591,) Gallathea (1592,) Midas (1592,) Mother Bombie (1594,) and Love’s Metamorphosis (1601.)
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by John Lyly
The true measure of life is not length, but honesty.
—John Lyly
Topics: Honesty
The rules of fair play do not apply in love and war.
—John Lyly
He that loseth his honesty hath nothing else to lose.
—John Lyly
Topics: Honesty
What one believes to be true either is true or becomes true within limits to be found experientially and experimentally. These limits are beliefs to be transcended.
—John Lyly
Topics: Optimism, Positive Attitudes
Marriages are made in heaven and consummated on earth.
—John Lyly
Topics: Marriage
As the best wine doth make the sharpest vinegar, so the deepest love turned to the deadliest hate.
—John Lyly
Topics: Wine
In the province of the mind, what one believes to be true either is true or becomes true.
—John Lyly
Topics: Truth, Belief
Where the mind is past hope, the heart is past shame.
—John Lyly
Topics: Shame
Many strokes overthrow the tallest oaks.
—John Lyly
Topics: Persistence, One Step at a Time, Perseverance
Our only security is our ability to change.
—John Lyly
Topics: Change
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