When we have got it, we want something else.

One must be a little foolish if one does not want to be even more stupid.

The world always looks straights ahead; as for me, I turn my gaze inward, I fix it there and keep it busy. Everyone looks in front of him: as for me, I look inside me: I have no business but with myself; I continually observe myself, I take stock of myself, I taste myself. Others...they always go forward; as for me, I roll about in myself.

There is no desire more natural than the desire of knowledge. (Il n'est desir plus naturel que le desir de connaissance)

We perceive no charms that are not sharpened, puffed out, and inflated by artifice. Those which glide along naturally and simply easily escape a sight so gross as ours.

Have you been able to think out and manage your own life? You have done the greatest task of all.... All other things, ruling, hoarding, building, are only little appendages and props, at most.

Every man may speak truly, but to speak methodically, prudently, and fully is a talent that few men have.