For if there is a sin against life, it consists perhaps not so much in despairing of life as in hoping for another life and in eluding the implacable grandeur of this life.

Whoever today speaks of human existence in terms of power, efficiency, and historical tasks is an actual or potential assassin.

And it was like knocking four quick times on the door of unhappiness.

The only real progress lies in learning to be wrong all alone.

Generally, I like all islands. There, it is easier to rule.

Democracy is not the law of the majority but the protection of the minority.

The act of love . . . is a confession. Selfishness screams aloud, vanity shows off, or else true generosity reveals itself.