Not only in peasant homes, but also in city skyscrapers, there lives alongside the twentieth century, the thirteenth. A hundred million people use electricity and still believe in the magic powers of signs and exorcisms . . . movie stars to mediums. Aviators who pilot miraculous mechanisms created by man's genius wear amulets on their sweaters. What inexhaustible reserves they possess of darkness, ignorance and savagery!

One of the most surprising things in life is the sudden realization that one has become old

Everyone has a right to be stupid, but Comrade MacDonald abuses the privilege.

For the overthrow of the bourgeoisie, the efforts of one country are sufficient - for this we have the testimony of the history of our revolution. For the definitive victory of Socialism, for the organization of Socialist production, the efforts of one country, especially of a peasant country like Russia, are insufficient - for that are required the efforts of the proletarians of several advanced countries.

Where force is necessary, there it must be applied boldly, decisively and completely.

Old age is the most unexpected of all things that happen to a man.

Learning carries within itself certain dangers because out of necessity one has to learn from one's enemies.