Mannerism always wants to be finished and doesn't enjoy the process. Genuine, truly great talent, however, finds its greatest satisfaction in the production.

Energy will do anything that can be done in the world; and no talents, no circumstances, no opportunities will make a two-legged animal a man without it.

Man supposes that he directs his life and governs his actions, when his existence is irretrievably under the control of destiny

Of all thieves, fools are the worst; they rob you of time and temper.

One can be instructed in society, one is inspired only in solitude.

A great artist... must be shaken by the naked truths that will not be comforted. This divine discontent, this disequilibrium, this state of inner tension is the source of artistic energy.

Reason can never be popular. Passions and feelings may become popular, but reason will always remain the sole property of a few eminent individuals.