The delights of this life are not its own, but our fear of the ascent into a higher life; the torments of this life are not its own, but our self-torment because of that fear.

Self-control means wanting to be effective at some random point in the infinite radiations of my spiritual existence.

Don Quixote's misfortune is not his imagination, but Sancho Panza.

If this is what you came for, then I didn't send for you. Kafka (note to himself in journal)

Life's splendor forever lies in wait about each one of us in all its fullness, but veiled from view, deep down, invisible, far off. It is there, though, not hostile, not reluctant, not deaf. If you summon it by the right word, by its right name, it will come.

I’m doing badly, I’m doing well; whichever you prefer.

Always first draw fresh breath after outbursts of vanity and complacency.