"Genius is present in every age, but the men carrying it within them remain benumbed unless extraordinary events occur to heat up and melt the mass so that it flows forth."

"Patriotism is an ephemeral motive that scarcely ever outlasts the particular threat to society that aroused it."

"The philosopher has never killed any priests, whereas the priest has killed a great many philosophers."

"Poetry must have something in it that is barbaric, vast and wild."

"Peace of heart is the greatest luxury life can bestow upon the mortal traveler. Let this simple maxim guide your daily deeds — an essential principle for the reflective life."

"The greatest deception men suffer is from their own opinions. Let this simple maxim guide your daily deeds."

"A leader does not command the wind, but sets the sails and steadies the crew. Remember this in moments of decisive trial — an essential principle for the reflective life."

"I could have been a dental hygienist with nothing bad ever appearing in print about me, but that's not how I've chosen to lead my life. I knew that you put yourself under a microscope the more famous you become."