The way in which modern German poetry follows theories reminds me of pupils who, scolded by their teacher for their insubordination, justify themselves by saying that they invented new rules of propriety according to which they are quite well- behaved.

Women, children, Tyroleans and preachers want to create a new kingdom of God, but the God of their kingdom looks like women, children, preachers, and Tyrolians.

Chance arrives unannounced. It emerges, and when it leaves, we are lucky if the changes it has produced are only external.

Profundity easily turns into dullness and astuteness deteriorates into wit. Be guided by natural common sense and it will accommodate great and small.

Soon there will be nothing truly profound that is not achieved by everyone, and of the difficult things in this world only one will be left: simplicity.

Let the will embrace the highest ideals freely and with infinite strength, but let action first take hold of what lies closest.

Genius unrefined resembles a flash of lightning, but wisdom is like the sun.