“The Persian VersionTruth-loving Persians do not dwell uponThe trivial skirmish fought near Marathon.As for the Greek theatrical traditionWhich represents that summer's expeditionNot as a mere reconnaisance in forceBy three brigades of foot and one of horse(Their left flank covered by some obsoleteLight craft detached from the main Persian fleet)But as a grandiose, ill-starred attemptTo conquer Greece - they treat it with contempt;And only incidentally refuteMajor Greek claims, by stressing what reputeThe Persian monarch and the Persian nationWon by this salutary demonstration:Despite a strong defence and adverse weatherAll arms combined magnificently together.”

“When it is dark enough, you can see the stars"An ancient Persian proverb”

“We Persians have a saying that one should deliberate serious matters first drunk, then sober.”

“Now that the barn has burned down, I can see the moon. - Persian proverb”

“The worst Persian voluptuary could never have imagined my most ordinary day.”

“If there must be a moon, let it be high,a high moon made in Baghdad, neither Arab, nor Persian,nor claimed by the goddesses all around us.”

“It became clear when I got in my car that Persians are only really good for two things. Oil and hummus.”