The absurd is essentially a divorce. It lies in neither of the elements compared; it is born of their confrontation.

A trial cannot be conducted by announcing the general culpability of a civilization. Only the actual deeds which, at least, stank in the nostrils of the entire world were brought to judgment.

Maman died today. Or yesterday maybe, I don't know. I got a telegram from the home: 'Mother deceased. Funeral tomorrow. Faithfully yours.' That doesn't mean anything. Maybe it was yesterday.

I shall not, as far as I am concerned, try to pass myself off as a Christian in your presence. I share with you the same revulsion from evil. But I do not share your hope, and I continue to struggle against this universe in which children suffer and die.

The harshest winter finds an invincible summer in us.

The first concern of any dictatorship is, consequently, to subjugate both labor and culture.

Man is an idea, and a precious small idea once he turns his back on love.