As a result, nature is something entirely different from what comes to mind when we invoke its name.

Alas! There cometh the time when man will no longer give birth to any star. Alas! There cometh the time of the most despicable man, who can no longer despise himself.

The grand style follows suit with all great passion. It disdains to please, it forgets to persuade. It commands. It wills.

If an architect wants to strengthen a decrepit arch, he increases the load laid upon it, for thereby the parts are joined more firmly together.

Be careful when you fight the monsters, lest you become one.

The wittiest authors evoke a barely perceptible smile.

One loves ultimately one's desires, not the thing desired.