Every single work of art is the fulfillment of a prophecy; for every work of art is the conversion of an idea into an image.

Nothing looks so like innocence as an indiscretion.

Alone, and without any reference to his neighbours, without any interference, the artist can fashion a beautiful thing; and if he does not do it solely for his own pleasure, he is not an artist at all.

At twilight, nature is not without loveliness, though perhaps its chief use is to illustrate quotations from the poets.

One should always be in love. That is the reason one should never marry.

No artist has ethical sympathies. An ethical sympathy in an artist is an unpardonable mannerism of style.

There is nothing that stirs in the whole world of thought to which sorrow does not vibrate in terrible and exquisite pulsation.