As far as the arts and the sciences are concerned, the German mind appreciates most highly that which it does not understand of the latter, and that which it does not enjoy of the former.

My anger thought you too ignoble for my love, and close examination finds you too magnificent, and only equals are joined together smoothly.

The graceful flowers of innocence are more valuable than the laurel crown of fame.

What's the meaning of all the pious clamor, condemning cocks and hens? Those who have no teeth are the greatest meat-haters.

When we interpret nature, we refer phenomena that are rarely entirely unintelligible back to something that actually exists, but is equally unintelligible.

I love the pride whose measure is its own eminence and not the insignificance of someone else.

The courts used to be, fair and square, the avengers of secular crimes; but nowadays they demand respect even for the criminal.