To imagine is everything, to know is nothing at all.

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

There is a certain impertinence in allowing oneself to be burned for an opinion.

Chance is the pseudonym God uses when He'd rather not sign His own name.

The duty of literature is to note what counts, and to light up what is suited to the light. If it ceases to choose and to love, it becomes like a woman who gives herself without preference.

The mania of thinking renders one unfit for every activity.

It is the certainty that they possess the truth that makes men cruel.