To glorify the cult of images (my great, my only, my earliest passion).

That which is not slightly distorted lacks sensible appeal; from which it follows that irregularity – that is to say, the unexpected, surprise and astonishment, are a essential part and characteristic of beauty.

Poetry and progress are like two ambitious men who hate one another with an instinctive hatred, and when they meet upon the same road, one of them has to give place.

The dandy should aspire to be uninterruptedly sublime. He should live and sleep in front of a mirror.

A silent mouth is sweet to hear.

The Poet is like the prince of the clouds, who haunts the tempest and laughs at the archer. Exiled on the ground in the midst of the jeering crowd, his giant's wings keep him from walking.

Multitude, solitude: equal and interchangeable terms for the active and prolific poet.