Oh, would that my mind could let fall its dead ideas, as the tree does its withered leaves! And without too many regrets, if possible! Those from which the sap has withdrawn. But, good Lord, what beautiful colors!

Every instant of our lives is essentially irreplaceable: you must know this in order to concentrate on life.

Envying another man's happiness is madness; you wouldn't know what to do with it if you had it.

Man's first and greatest victory must be won against the gods.

We should enjoy this summer, flower by flower, as if it were to be the last one we’ll see.

One should want only one thing and want it constantly. Then one is sure of getting it. But I desire everything, and consequently get nothing.

Too chaste a youth leads to a dissolute old age.