Sourcery (Discworld, #5; Rincewind, #3)

by Terry Pratchett

“I meant,” said Ipslore, bitterly, “what is there in this world that makes living worthwhile?” Death thought about it. CATS, he said eventually, CATS ARE NICE

senior wizards tended to look upon actual magic as a bit beneath them. They tended to prefer administration, which was safer and nearly as much fun, and also big dinners.

“Anyway, they don’t allow women inside after dark,” he said. “And before dark?” “Not then, either.” Conina sighed. “That’s silly. What have you wizards got against women, then?” Rincewind’s brow wrinkled. “We’re not supposed to put anything against women,” he said. “That’s the whole point.”

I command you. And you, madam. Serve me well and I will grant you your deepest desire. “How can you grant my deepest desire if the world’s going to end?” The hat appeared to think about it. Well, have you got a deepest desire that need only take a couple of minutes?

“What did it feel like?” “Have you ever been bitten by a viper?” “No.” “In that case you’ll understand exactly what it felt like.” “Hmmm?” “It wasn’t like a snake bite at all.”

“Talent just defines what you do,” he said. “It doesn’t define what you are. Deep down, I mean. When you know what you are, you can do anything.”

It’s vital to remember who you really are. It’s very important. It isn’t a good idea to rely on other people or things to do it for you, you see. They always get it wrong.”