...one of the traits of genius is not to drag its thought through the rut worn by vulgar minds.

One can acquire everything in solitude except character.

The first characteristic of Rossini's music is speed - a speed which removes from the soul all the sombre emotions that are so powerfully evoked within us by the slow strains in Mozart. I find also in Rossini a cool freshness, which, measure by measure, makes us smile with delight.

Any man who talks about his love affairs thereby proves he is ignorant of love and is moved only by vanity.

This religion takes away the courage of thinking of unusual things and prohibits self-examination above all as the most egregiousof sins.... It is one step away from protestantism.

I see but one rule: to be clear.

Our true passions are selfish.