Shams and delusions are esteemed for soundest truths, while reality is fabulous. If men would steadily observe realities only, and not allow themselves to be deluded, life ... would be like a fairy tale and the Arabian Nights' Entertainments.

Speech is for the convenience of those who are hard of hearing; but there are many fine things which we cannot say if we have to shout.

I fear that we are such gods or demigods only as fauns and satyrs, the divine allied to beasts, the creatures of appetite, and that, to some extent, our very life is our disgrace.

Our inventions are wont to be pretty toys, which distract our attention from serious things. They are but improved means to an unimproved end.

When a noble deed is done, who is likely to appreciate it? They who are noble themselves.

A man cannot be said to succeed in this life who does not satisfy one friend.

How rarely I meet with a man who can be free, even in thought! We all live according to rule. Some men are bedridden; all world-ridden.