For every monarchy overthrown the sky becomes less brilliant, because it loses a star. A republic is ugliness set free.

I am a physician. I keep a drug-shop of lies. I give relief, consolation. Can one console and relieve without lying? ... Only women and doctors know how necessary and how helpful lies are to men.

If fifty million people say a foolish thing, it is still a foolish thing.

Custom alone regulates morals.

Do not try to satisfy your vanity by teaching a great many things. Awaken people's curiosity. It is enough to open minds; do not overload them. Put there just a spark. If there is some good inflammable stuff, it will catch fire.

The truth is that life is delicious, horrible, charming, frightful, sweet, bitter, and that is everything.

Irony is the gaiety of reflection and the joy of wisdom.