Maman’s life was an unfinished book. Celeste had to discover the ending, and then she could close the cover for ever.

...People - the ones who are left behind - desire answers. Even when we are advised from beyond the grave not to pursue them.

...You, you look -- bien -- exactly what you were, a high-ranking British officer, used to unwavering obedience and with the air of a Greek god, gazing down on us mere mortals.

The soldier in the portrait had been a respected and admired officer...The man he had become was fighting a different battle now. He had his demons, just as she had her ghosts.

You! That is what is behind this. Ever since you -- As if I didn't have enough on my mind without having to lie awake thinking of you and your damned kisses and your damned questions.

Where is your Revolutionary spirit?""Beheaded, " Celeste said.

Her past is behind her, her future is of little concern. She moves towards the grave, at her own speed.

One of Sir Topher's rules was to never indulge in sentimentality, never return for what was left behind.

It just means that if someone hates you, they still have feelings for you. If they really didn't care about you, they'd just forget about you. They wouldn't even waste the time hating you.

Theoretical approaches have their place and are, I suppose, essential but a theory must be tempered with reality.

I want to be ripped apart by music.

Neither the true faith nor eternal salvation is to be found outside the Holy Catholic Church.

The Olympics in '80 was phenomenal. It was my favorite memory of all competitive events, because it was brand new and it was exciting.

There are certain people who people think are enlightened. The problem with the word enlightenment is what you mean by it.

I just try to surround myself with good, positive supportive people who are trying to make the world better.

I personally stay away from natural foods. At my age I need all the preservatives I can get.