I have an object, a task, let me say the word, a passion. The profession of writing is a violent and almost indestructible one.

The whole secret of the study of nature lies in learning how to use one's eyes.

Guard well within yourself that treasure, kindness. Know how to give without hesitation, how to lose without regret, how to acquire without meanness.

Some say that cats are devils, but they behave badly only when they are alone. When they are among us cats are angels.

Sex is the most respectable and holy thing in all creation, the most serious act in life.

I was born to love - but none of you wanted to believe it, and that misunderstanding was crucial in forming my character. It's true that nature was strangely inconsistent in giving me a warm heart, but also a face that was like a stone mask and a tongue that was heavy and slow. She refused me what she bestowed freely on even the most loutish of my fellow men. . . . People judged my inner character by my outer covering, and like a sterile fruit, I withered under the rough husk I couldn't slough off.

Masterpieces are only lucky attempts.