The most fitting occupation for a civilized man is to do nothing.

Books follow morals, and not morals books.

It is difficult to obtain the friendship of a cat.

There is nothing truly beautiful but that which can never be of any use whatsoever; everything useful is ugly, for it is the expression of some need, and man's needs are ignoble and disgusting like his own poor and infirm nature. The most useful place in a house is the water-closet.

The pleasure in traveling consists of the obstacles, the fatigue, and even the danger. What charm can anyone find in an excursion when he is always sure of reaching his destination, of having horses ready waiting for him, a soft bed, an excellent supper, and all the eases and comfort he can enjoy in his own home! One of the great misfortunes of modern life is the want of any sudden surprise, and the absence of all adventure. Everything is so well arranged.

You do not become a critic until it has been completely established to your own satisfaction that you cannot be a poet.

[A cat] will make itself the companion of your hours of work, of loneliness, or of sadness.