Talent is often a defect in character.

One must read all writers twice--the good as well as the bad. The one kind will be recognized; the other, unmasked.

On the stage one must not confuse the nature of a personality with the naturalness of a person.

It is a mystery to me how a theologian can be praised for having brought himself to disbelieve dogmas. I've always thought that those who have brought themselves to believe in dogmas merit the true recognition owing a heroic deed.

To me it's still a greater miracle when a fly flies than when a human being undertakes to do so.

A white lie is always pardonable. But he who tells the truth without compulsion merits no leniency.

I have to do this, as long as it is at all possible; for if those who are obliged to look after commas had always made sure they were in the right place, then Shanghai would not be burning.