We must reserve a back shop all our own entirely free, in which to establish our real liberty and our principal retreat and solitude.

After a tongue has once got the knack of lying, it is not to be imagined how impossible almost it is to reclaim it. Whence it comes to pass, that we see some men, who are otherwise very honest, so subject to this vice.

As great enmities spring from great friendships, and mortal distempers from vigorous health, so do the most surprising and the wildest frenzies from the high and lively agitations of our souls.

That is why Bias jested with those who were going through the perils of a great storm with him and calling on the gods for help: "Shut up," he said, "so that they do not realize that you are here with me.

He who falls obstinate in his courage, if he falls he fights from his knees.

Amongst so many borrowed things, am glad if I can steal one, disguising and altering it for some new service.

We are never present with, but always beyond ourselves; fear, desire, hope, still push us on toward the future.