This actual world of what is knowable, in which we are and which is in us, remains both the material and the limit of our consideration.

All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.

It is difficult to find happiness within oneself, but it is impossible to find it anywhere else.

The majority of men... are not capable of thinking, but only of believing, and... are not accessible to reason, but only to authority.

Talent hits a target no one else can hit; Genius hits a target no one else can see.

A man can be himself only so long as he is alone; and if he does not love solitude, he will not love freedom; for it is only when he is alone that he is really free.

Man is the only animal who causes pain to others with no other object than wanting to do so.

Genius and madness have something in common: both live in a world that is different from that which exists for everyone else.

A pessimist is an optimist in full possession of the facts.

Religions are like fireflies. They require darkness in order to shine.

Nature shows that with the growth of intelligence comes increased capacity for pain, and it is only with the highest degree of intelligence that suffering reaches its supreme point.

Life is a journey toward the unknown. That is why life is so exciting!

One good friend is better than a thousand questionable ones.

the safest place to keep your secrets is to keep them in your mind with a locked tongue

In politics, every day is filled with numerous opportunities for serious error. Enjoy it.

We may say we value this thing or that thing more than any other, but the volume of our actions speaks louder than our words.

Everything starts with writing. And then to support your vision, your ideas, your philosophy, your jokes, whatever, you've gotta perform them and/or direct them, or sometimes just produce them.

This is where I begin to do the writing. I am now going to be the pen and not the paper.

The first step to getting good is admitting that you aren't (yet).

She did her work with the thoroughness of a mind which reveres details and never quite understands them.

I've killed enough of the world's trees.