One doesn't discover new lands without consenting to lose sight, for a very long time, of the shore.

Christianity, above all, consoles; but there are naturally happy souls who do not need consolation. Consequently Christianity begins by making such souls unhappy, for otherwise it would have no power over them.

Most quarrels amplify a misunderstanding.

Humanity cherishes its swaddling clothes; but it shall not grow up unless it can free itself from them. Turning down his mother's breast does not make the weaned child ungrateful. ... Rise up naked, valiant; make the sheaths crack; push aside the stakes; to grow straight you need no more than the thrust of your sap and the call of the sun.

In other people's company I felt I was dull, gloomy, unwelcome, at once bored and boring.

The individual man tries to escape the race. And as soon as he ceases to represent the race, he represents man.

It is good to follow one's own bent, so long as it leads upward.