...[unskilled], unbelieving, and by no means capable, to the Momuses and Mimes original: "Momis & Mimis." Momus was the Greek god of satire and mockery; Maier uses these terms to refer to cynical critics and superficial scoffers., as those who are unworthy, we truly desire that these secrets remain hidden and closed: for to them, nothing that tastes of wisdom to the wise should have any flavor, and nothing should seem pleasing unless it serves profit, the senses, or the common crowd. Indeed, we hope and shall strive, as much as lies within us, that these things be published for you alone, hidden from them, understood by you, and not even read by them. It is your part not to reject this outpouring of my mind, this readiness of my will and zeal, but to judge it fairly and well; and I wish for you to be held commended to God, the Best and Greatest.

ON THE EMBLEM

Of the Magnificent and Illustrious Gentleman, Michael Maier:

The grace of a beautiful form is something of the body,

Wisdom gained by wakeful labor is something,

If, however, we look at how much the Author excels these things,

MICHAEL MAIER, DOCTOR, COUNT

PALATINE. Maier was a "Comes Palatinus" or Count Palatine, a title of nobility often granted to high-ranking scholars or officials in the Holy Roman Empire.

IN CHRIST GOD IS THAT HOPE OF MINE,

I LOVE THE TORMENT, original: "Amo Cruciatum." This is an anagram of the name "Michael Maierus." In the context of alchemy, "torment" or "cruciation" often refers to the intense heat of the furnace or the "testing" of a substance.

Lest the ill-advised love of gold should hold me.
Let a golden dowry please others and feed their eyes,

THE LAUREL, THUS I LOVE THE OMEN, THE RIGHT

DOWRY PLEASES ME. original: "Laurus, amo omen sic." This is another anagram of "Michael Maierus." The laurel is a symbol of victory and poetic achievement.