How can one learn to know oneself? Never by introspection, rather by action.

If the mass of people hesitate to act, strike with swiftly and with boldness, the brave heart that understands and seizes opportunity can everything.

Mysteries are not necessarily miracles.

People are always talking about originality; but what do they mean? As soon as we are born, the world begins to work upon us; and this goes on to the end. And after all, what can we call our own, except energy, strength, and will? If I could give an account of all that I owe to great predecessors and contemporaries, there would be but a small balance in my favor.

Nature goes her own way, and all that to us seems an exception is really according to order.

Great passions are incurable diseases.

Normally, the sciences distance themselves from life and the return to it via a detour.