The spirit of the world, the great calm presence of the creator, comes not forth to the sorceries of opium or of wine.

History no longer shall be a dull book. It shall walk incarnate in every just and wise man. You shall not tell me by language and titles a catalogue of the volumes you have read. You shall make me feel what periods you have lived.

When I walk up the piazza of Santa Croce I feel as if it were not a Florentine nor an European church but a church built by and for the human race.

Society is always taken by surprise at any new example of common sense.

Earth laughs in flowers to see her boastful boys Earth-proud, proud of the earth which is not theirs; Who steer the plough, but cannot steer their feet Clear of the grave.

A poem is made up of thoughts, each of which filled the whole sky of the poet in its turn.

Real action is in silent moments.