"Ancientness is also confirmed by our energetic fatalism (which is not at all an Oriental aspect). Newer peoples are more stirred by desires, the achievement of which will barely endure, whereas Romanians cultivate a sound skepticism toward any pointless undertaking. New nations are optimistic and clamorously inimical in defeat. Romanians are discreet and patient. […] Owing to its old age, our race attained, as one that saw the rise and fall of empires (Celts, Romans, barbarians, Turks, Austro-Hungarians), a higher philosophy: What is wave will pass like waves. […] In fact, this philosophy is blended with a miraculous political sense. Taking a longer perspective, we realize that our instinct has always been sure. Only we evaded the Ottoman administrative infiltration, safeguarding our independence. The people knows how to dissimulate emotional reactions under an indifferent face, without playing a Byzantine comedy."
by George Călinescu (1899-1965)
