When we talk in company we lose our unique tone of voice, and this leads us to make statements which in no way correspond to our real thoughts.

This sign I give you: every people speaks its tongue of good and evil, which the neighbor does not understand. It has invented its own language of customs and rights.

I have not the capability to give you my loyalty, nor do I have the vanity to appear as if I did.

Live dangerously. Build your cities on the slopes of Vesuvius.

He who recites dramatic works makes discoveries about his own character.

There is no more dreary or more repulsive creature than the man who has evaded his genius.

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