[To Bonaparte, when asked why she meddled in politics:] Sire, when women have their heads cut off, it is but just they should know the reason.
there is not enough interest in life to spread over twenty-four hours when one can't sleep.
Society develops wit, but its contemplation alone forms genius.
Morality must guide calculation, and calculation must guide politics.
Enthusiasm signifies 'God in us.'
One must, in one's life, make a choice between boredom and suffering.