Music is of two kinds: one petty, poor, second-rate, never varying, its base the hundred or so phrasings which all musicians understand, a babbling which is more or less pleasant, the life that most composers live.

Religious ecstasy is a madness of thought freed of its bodily bonds, whereas in the ecstasy of love, the forces of twin natures unite, blend and embrace one another.

To those who have exhausted politics, nothing remains but abstract thought.

A careful observation of Nature will disclose pleasantries of superb irony. She has for instance placed toads close to flowers.

Love or hatred must constantly increase between two persons who are always together; every moment fresh reasons are found for loving or hating better.

It is easier for a woman to be a good wife than a good mother. A widow has two duties with contrary obligations: she is a mother and she must exercise paternal authority. Few woman are strong enough to understand and to play this role.

Nothing is a greater impediment to being on good terms with others than being ill at ease with yourself.