of 600 lines. No trace of these works has survived. Legal reform Pittacus instituted a law stating that crimes committed in drunkenness should be punished twofold; that was directed predominantly against the aristocrats, who were more often guilty of drunk and violent behaviour. As such, it was greatly appreciated by the common people. Other sayings "Forgiveness is better than revenge." "Whatever you do, do it well." "Even the gods cannot strive against necessity." "Power shows the man." "Do not say beforehand what you are going to do; for if you fail, you will be laughed at." "Do not reproach a man with his misfortunes, fearing lest Nemesis may overtake you." "Forbear to speak evil not only of your friends, but also of your enemies." "Cultivate truth, good faith, experience, cleverness, sociability, and industry." "Know thine opportunity." References Sources External links 640s BC births 568 BC deaths 7th-century BC Greek people 6th-century BC Greek people Ancient Mytileneans Archaic tyrants Seven Sages of Greece