This is what one thirsts for, I realize, after the smallness of the day, of work, of details, of intimacy - even of communication, one thirsts for the magnitude and universality of a night full of stars, pouring into one like a fresh tide.

But I want first of all- in fact, as an end to these other desires- to be at peace with myself.

I feel we are all islands - in a common sea.

The artist knows he must be alone to create; the writer, to work out his thoughts; the musician, to compose; the saint, to pray. But women need solitude in order to find again the true essence of themselves.

I must write it all out, at any cost. Writing is thinking. It is more than living, for it is being conscious of living.

The nice thing about really intelligent people is that when you talk with them they make you feel intelligent too.

Fame separates you from life.