We live in an age in which superfluous ideas abound and essential ideas are lacking.

The last word should be the last word. It is like a finishing touch given to color; there is nothing more to add. But what precaution is needed in order not to put the last word first.

Genius begins beautiful works, but only labor finishes them.

To be an agreeable guest one need only enjoy oneself.

Tormented by the cursed ambition always to put a whole book in a page, a whole page in a sentence, and this sentence in a word. I am speaking of myself.

The lively phraseology of Montesquieu was the result of long meditation. His words, as light as wings, bear on them grave reflections.

The dregs may stir themselves as they please; they fall back to the bottom by their own coarseness.