They who see only what they wish to see in those around them are very fortunate.

Art consists precisely in making us admire old stories, charming us with them eternally, as Nature charms with her eternal sun, her ancient earth, and her men built all on the same pattern, and all animated by the same feelings.

When one misses an opportunity one is apt to fancy that another will never present itself.

Time is the most terrible, the most discouraging, the most unconquerable of all obstacles, and one that may exist when no other does.

When I die my death will be caused by indignation at the stupidity of human nature.

Art ... is as much a source of happiness for the beginner as for the master. One forgets everything in one's work.

Nothing is ever so good or so bad in reality as it is in the anticipation.