Idea and experience will never coincide in the center; only through art and action are they united.

We amuse ourselves painting our prison-walls with bright figures and brilliant landscapes.

The greatest piece of folly is that every man thinks himself compelled to hand down what people think they have known.

The style of writing required in the great world is distinguished by a free and daring grace, a careless security, a fine and sharp polish, a delicate and perfect taste; while that fitted for the people is characterized by a vigorous natural fulness, a profound depth of feeling, and an engaging naivete.

This is the true measure of love, When we believe that we alone can love, That no one could ever have loved so before us, And that no one will ever love in the same way after us.

Yes, I have finally arrived to this Capital of the World! I now see all the dreams of my youth coming to life... Only in Rome is it possible to understand Rome.

From desire I plunge to its fulfilment, where I long once more for desire.