Mediocrity is the most effective mask a superior spirit can wear, because to the great majority, which is to say, to the mediocre,it will not suggest a disguise:--and yet it is precisely for their sake that he puts it on--so as not to arouse them, and, indeed, not infrequently to avoid this out of pity and benevolence.

There would be no sunshine in society if the born flatterers, I mean the so-called amiable people, did not bring it in with them.

Existence begins in every instant.

Thinking has to be learned in the way dancing has to be learned.

If a man wishes to rid himself of a feeling of unbearable oppression, he may have to take hashish.

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

The good displeases us when we are not up to it.