A writer or painter cannot change the world. But they can keep an essential margin of nonconformity alive.

If we could only find the courage to leave our destiny to chance, to accept the fundamental mystery of our lives, then we might be closer to the sort of happiness that comes with innocence.

In any society, the artist has a responsibility. His effectiveness is certainly limited and a painter or writer cannot change the world. But they can keep an essential margin of non-conformity alive. Thanks to them the powerful can never affirm that everyone agrees with their acts. That small difference is important.

Refuse any image that could have a rational meaning or any memory or culture

I would give my life for a man who is looking for the truth. But I would gladly kill a man who thinks that he has found the truth.

Mystery is the essential element of every work of art.

Tobacco and alcohol, delicious fathers of abiding friendships and fertile reveries.