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.

In order to become the master, the politician poses as the servant.

The cemetery is filled with indispensable men.

I predict you will sink step by step into a bottomless quagmire, however much you spend in men and money." (On Vietnam War)

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

Once upon a time there was an old country, wrapped up in habit and caution. We have to transform our old France into a new country and marry it to its time.

France has no friends, only interests.