I will be lord over myself.

Man's highest merit always is, as much as possible, to rule external circumstances and as little as possible to let himself be ruled by them.

He who is wise puts aside all claims which may dissipate his attention, and confining himself to one branch excels in that.

There are people who pay attention to the weaknesses of their friends; that is to no avail. I have always closely watched and profited from the strengths of my adversaries.

Certain defects are necessary for the existence of individuality.

What is part of you, you cannot get rid of, even if you were to throw it away.

Art is a mediator of the unspeakable.