One should not ascribe the evil deeds of individual leaders or political regimes to an innate fault of the Russian people and their country.

A leader should not be a man who arbitrarily imported his own ideas but the essential focal point for a group of people who trusted one another and worked for a common aim.

Periods of rapid and fundamental change were never favourable for literature. Significant works, have nearly always and everywhere been created in periods of stability, be it good or bad.

I have grown used to the fact that public repentance is the most unacceptable option for the modern politician.

Own only what you can always carry with you: know languages, know countries, know people. Let your memory be your travel bag.

The foundation stones of a great building are destined to groan and be pressed upon; it is not for them to crown the edifice.

There are a lot of clear thinkers everywhere.