Tis a principle of war that when you can use the lightning, 'tis better than cannon.

A celebrated people lose dignity upon a closer view.

France has more need of me than I have need of France.

The human race is governed by its imagination.

One must indeed be ignorant of the methods of genius to suppose that it allows itself to be cramped by forms. Forms are for mediocrity, and it is fortunate that mediocrity can act only according to routine. Ability takes its flight unhindered.

Religion is what keeps the poor from murdering the rich.

Suicide is a crime the most revolting to the feelings; nor does any reason suggest itself to our understanding by which it can be justified. It certainly originates in that species of fear which we denominate poltroonery. For what claim can that man have to courage who trembles at the frowns of fortunes? True heroism consists in being superior to the ills of life in whatever shape they may challenge him to combat.