I do not comprehend those rules of conduct that make us so content with self and so cold to those we love. I detest prudence, I even hate (suffer me to say so) those duties of friendship which substitute propriety for interest, and circumspection for feeling. How shall I say it? I love the abandonment to impulse, I act from impulse only, and I love to madness that others do the same by me.
Jeanne Julie Eleonore de LespinasseYou know that when I hate you, it is because I love you to a point of passion that unhinges my soul.
Jeanne Julie Eleonore de LespinasseOh! you shall see how well I know how to love! I can only love; I know only how to love! With moderate faculties, we can yet do much when we center them on a single object.
Jeanne Julie Eleonore de LespinasseIf you can attain repose and calm, believe that you have seized happiness.
Jeanne Julie Eleonore de Lespinasse