I have never belonged wholeheartedly to a country, a state, nor to a circle of friends, nor even to my own family. When I was still a rather precocious young man, I already realized most vividly the futility of the hopes and aspirations that most men pursue throughout their lives. Well-being and happiness never appeared to me as an absolute aim. I am even inclined to compare such moral aims to the ambitions of a pig.

Thinking is hard work; that's why so few do it.

In my experience, the best creative work is never done when one is unhappy.

Imagination is vastly more important than intelligence.

The pursuit of truth and beauty is a sphere of activity in which we are permitted to remain children all our lives.

Matter is spirit reduced to point of visibility.

Nothing truly valuable can be achieved except by the unselfish cooperation of many individuals.