We understand death only after it has placed its hands on someone we love.
I never was able to believe in the existence of next year except as in a metaphysical notion.
In matters of the heart, nothing is true except the improbable.
Enthusiasm gives life to what is invisible; and interest to what has no immediate action on our comfort in this world.
[The Germans] so easily confuse obstinacy with energy, and rudeness with firmness.
there is not enough interest in life to spread over twenty-four hours when one can't sleep.