"This only is certain, that there is nothing certain; and nothing more miserable and yet more arrogant than man."

"No mortal man, moreover is wise at all moments."

"In these matters the only certainty is that nothing is certain."

"In comparing various authors with one another, I have discovered that some of the gravest and latest writers have transcribed, word for word, from former works, without making acknowledgment."

"Why is it that we entertain the belief that for every purpose odd numbers are the most effectual?"

"The best plan is to profit by the folly of others."

"The aim of every artist is to arrest motion, which is life, by artificial means and hold it fixed so that a hundred years later, when a stranger looks at it, it moves again since it is life."

"The fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself."

"None of us will ever accomplish anything excellent or commanding except when he listens to this whisper which is heard by him alone."

"Genius without religion is only a lamp on the outer gate of a palace; it may serve to cast a gleam on those that are without while the inhabitant sits in darkness."

"To absent friends, lost loves, old gods, and the season of mists; and may each and every one of us always give the devil his due."

"All creative people should be required to leave California for three months every year."