If we suspect that a man is lying, we should pretend to believe him; for then he becomes bold and assured, lies more vigorously, and is unmasked.

The fundament upon which all our knowledge and learning rests is the inexplicable.

We deceive and flatter no one by such delicate artificies as we do our own selves.

To find out your real opinion of someone, judge the impression you have when you first see a letter from them.

The beard, being a half-mask, should be forbidden by the police - It is, moreover, as a sexual symbol in the middle of the face, obscene: that is why it pleases women.

If at times I have thought myself unfortunate, it is because of a confusion, an error. I have mistaken myself for someone else... Who am I really? I am the author of The World as Will and Representation, I am the one who has given an answer to the mystery of Being that will occupy the thinkers of future centuries. That is what I am, and who can dispute it in the years of life that still remain for me?

Every possession and every happiness is but lent by chance for an uncertain time, and may therefore be demanded back the next hour.