A high civilization is a pyramid: it can stand only on a broad base; its primary prerequisite is a strong and soundly consolidated mediocrity.

Whoever commits to paper what he suffers becomes a melancholy author: but he becomes a serious author when he tells us what he suffered and why he now reposes in joy.

Laughter means: taking a mischievous delight in someone else's uneasiness, but with a good conscience.

People who feel insecure in social situations never miss a chance to exhibit their dominance over close, submissive friends, whomthey put down publicly, in front of everyone--by teasing, for example.

Phlegmatic natures can be inspired to enthusiasm only by being made into fanatics.

To discover he is loved in return ought really to disenchant the lover with the beloved.

I am alone again and I want to be so; alone with the pure sky and open sea.