The rich's paradise was created by the poor's hell.

People generally will soon understand that writers should be judged, not according to rules and species, which are contrary to nature and art, but according to the immutable principles of the art of composition, and the special laws of their individual temperaments.

It is those books which a man possesses but does not read which constitute the most suspicious evidence against him.

History has its truth, and so has legend. Legendary truth is of another nature than historical truth. Legendary truth is invention whose result is reality. Furthermore, history and legend have the same goal; to depict eternal man beneath momentary man.

There is no rapture in the love which is prompted by esteem; such affection is lasting, not passionate.

It is the essence of truth that it is never excessive. Why should it exaggerate? There is that which should be destroyed and that which should be simply illuminated and studied. How great is the force of benevolent and searching examination! We must not resort to the flame where only light is required.

A language does not become fixed. The human intellect is always on the march, or, if you prefer, in movement, and languages with it.