Old places and old persons in their turn, when spirit dwells in them, have an intrinsic vitality of which youth is incapable; precisely the balance and wisdom that comes from long perspectives and broad foundations.

Parents lend children their experience and a vicarious memory; children endow their parents with a vicarious immortality.

At best, the true philosopher can fulfil his mission very imperfectly, which is to pilot himself, or at most a few voluntary companions who may find themselves in the same boat.

Philosophers are as jealous as women; each wants a monopoly of praise.

It is rash to intrude upon the piety of others: both the depth and the grace of it elude the stranger.

Religion in its humility restores man to his only dignity, the courage to live by grace.

To condemn spontaneous and delightful occupations because they are useless for self-preservation shows an uncritical prizing of life irrespective of its content.

To the art of working well a civilized race would add the art of playing well.

The fly that prefers sweetness to a long life may drown in honey.

If artists and poets are unhappy, it is after all because happiness does not interest them.