Nothing is more piquant than when a man of genius possesses mannerisms; not so when they possess him -- this leads to spiritual petrification.

A classical work doesn't ever have to be understood entirely. But those who are educated and who are still educating themselves must desire to learn more and more from it.

Beauty is that which is simultaneously attractive and sublime.

Every complete man has his genius. True virtue is genius.

Many a witty inspiration is like the surprising reunion of befriended thoughts after a long separation.

All the classical genres are now ridiculous in their rigorous purity.

Wit as an instrument of revenge is as infamous as art is as a means of sensual titillation.