When we cannot use the compass of mathematics or the torch of experience...it is certain we cannot take a single step forward.

I am very fond of truth, but not at all of martyrdom.

We are all full of weakness and errors; let us mutually pardon each other our follies - it is the first law of nature.

Let us therefore reject all superstition in order to become more human; but in speaking against fanaticism, let us not imitate the fanatics: they are sick men in delirium who want to chastise their doctors. Let us assuage their ills, and never embitter them, and let us pour drop by drop into their souls the divine balm of toleration, which they would reject with horror if it were offered to them all at once.

Writing is the painting of the voice.

Satire lies about literary men while they live and eulogy lies about them when they die.

I have never made but one prayer to God, a very short one: 'O Lord make my enemies ridiculous.' And God granted it.