However 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.

How many years must a man do nothing, before he can at all know what is to be done and how to do it!

Art is in itself noble; that is why the artist has no fear of what is common. This, indeed, is already ennobled when he takes it up.

The artist alone sees spirits. But after he has told of their appearing to him, everybody sees them.

Beware of wishing for anything in youth, because you will get it in middle age.

Superstition is the poetry of life. It is inherent in man's nature; and when we think it is wholly eradicated, it takes refuge in the strangest holes and corners, whence it peeps out all at once, as soon as it can do it with safety.

He who possesses science and art, Possesses religion as well; He who possesses neither of these, Had better have religion.