Everything that is incomprehensible does not, however, cease to exist.

The charm of fame is so great that we like every object to which it is attached, even death.

Clarity of mind means clarity of passion, too.

The mind of the greatest man on earth is not so independent of circumstances as not to feel inconvenienced by the merest buzzing noise about him; it does not need the report of a cannon to disturb his thoughts. The creaking of a vane or a pully is quite enough. Do not wonder that he reasons ill just now; a fly is buzzing by his ear; it is quite enough to unfit him for giving good counsel.

What amazes me most is to see that everyone is not amazed at his own weakness.

Things have different qualities, and the soul different inclinations; for nothing is simple which is presented to the soul, and the soul never presents itself simply to any object. Hence it comes that we weep and laugh at the same thing.

Everyone, without exception, is searching for happiness.