The misfortune in the state is, that nobody can enjoy life in peace, but that everybody must govern; and in art, that nobody will enjoy what has been produced, but that every one wants to reproduce on his own account.

Every offense is avenged on earth.

A man should hear a little music, read a little poetry, and see a fine picture every day of his life, in order that worldly cares may not obliterate the sense of the beautiful which God has implanted in the human soul.

Animals, we have been told, are taught by their organs. Yes, I would add, and so are men, but men have this further advantage that they can also teach their organs in return.

Ah! my poor brain is racked and crazed, My spirit and senses amazed!

Whatever liberates our spirit, without also giving us mastery over ourselves, is destructive.

Time flies, and what is past is done.