Philanthropic people lose all sense of humanity. It is their distinguishing characteristic.

I played with an idea, and grew willful; tossed it into the air; transformed it; let it escape and recaptured it; made it iridescent with fancy, and winged it with paradox.

[on his deathbed in a Paris hotel room] Either this wallpaper goes, or I do.

I must decline your invitation owing to a subsequent engagement.

Life is terrible. It rules us, we do not rule it.

Do you really think it is weakness that yields to temptation? I tell you that there are terrible temptations which it requires strength, strength and courage to yield to.

You will always be fond of me. I represent to you all the sins you have never had the courage to commit.