Everyone only hears what he understands.

A life without love, without the presence of the beloved, is nothing but a mere magic-lantern show. We draw out slide after slide, swiftly tiring of each, and pushing it back to make haste for the next.

Could we perfect human nature, we might also expect a perfect state of things.

Battle not with monsters, for then you become one.

The public wishes itself to be managed like a woman; one must say nothing to it except what it likes to hear.

I love those who yearn for the impossible.

What is the true test of character unless it be its progressive development in the bustle and turmoil, in the action and reaction of daily life.