Certain faults are necessary for the existence of the individual. We would resent it if old friends were to get rid of certain peculiarities.
Johann Wolfgang von GoetheI nothing had, and yet enough for youth--Joy in Illusion, ardent thirst for Truth. Give unrestrained, the old emotion, The bliss that touched the verge of pain, The strength of Hate, Love's deep devotion,--O, give me back my youth again!
Johann Wolfgang von GoetheVery few people love others for what they are; rather, they love what they lend them, their own selves, their own idea of them.
Johann Wolfgang von GoetheHowever often we turn to it [the Koran] at first disgusting us each time afresh, it soon attracts, astounds, and in the end enforces our reverence. . . . Its style, in accordance with its contents and aim is stern, grand, terrible - ever and anon truly sublime - Thus this book will go on exercising through all ages a most potent influence.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe