The endless legacy of the past to the present is the secret source of human genius.

We do not attach ourselves lastingly to anything that has not cost us care, labor or longing.

Alas, two men are often necessary to provide a woman with a perfect lover, just as in literature a writer composes a type only by employing the singularities of several similar characters.

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

For passion, be it observed, brings insight with it; it can give a sort of intelligence to simpletons, fools, and idiots, especially during youth.

How did you get back?' asked Vautrin. 'I walked,' replied Eugene. 'I wouldn't like half-pleasures, myself,' observed the tempter. 'I'd want to go there in my own carriage, have my own box, and come back in comfort. All or nothing, that's my motto.' 'And a very good one,' said Madame Vauquer.

Yes, I can understand that a man might go to a gambling table when he sees that all that lies between him and death is his last crown.