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.

Generally among intelligent people are found nothing but paralytics and among men of action nothing but fools.

What I dislike least in my former self are the moments of prayer.

I owe much to my friends; but, all things considered, it strikes me that I owe even more to my enemies. The real person springs life under a sting even better than under a caress.

It is with noble sentiments that bad literature gets written.

The reasons that drive me to write are many and the most important are the most secret, I think. Perhaps most of all this: to put something out of death's reach.

Chastity more rarely follows fear, or a resolution, or a vow, than it is the mere effect of lack of appetite and, sometimes even, of distaste.