The leader must aim high, see big, judge widely, thus setting himself apart form the ordinary people who debate in narrow confines.

When I want to know what France thinks, I ask myself.

I wouldn't mind dying for France, but not for Air France.

One does not arrest Voltaire.

One can unite the French only under the threat of danger. One cannot simply bring together a nation that produces 265 kinds of cheese.

As an adolescent I was convinced that France would have to go through gigantic trials, that the interest of life consisted in one day rendering her some signal service and that I would have the occasion to do so.

Victory often goes to the army that makes the least mistakes, not the most brilliant plans.