Passions are defects or virtues in the highest power.

A person hears only what they understand.

Truth is a torch but a tremendous one. That is why we hurry past it, shielding our eyes, indeed, in fear of getting burned.

A man is really alive only when he delights in the good-will of others.

Poetry is the universal possession of mankind, revealing itself everywhere, and at all times, in hundreds and hundreds of men.

The best benefit we derive from history is the enthusiasm it excites.

We should treat children as God does us, who makes us happiest when He leaves us under the influence of innocent delusions.