Alfred de Vigny

I have a private theory, Sir, that there are no heroes and no monsters in this world. Only children should be allowed to use these words

I admit that I myself am far from having a complete command of every topic I touch on, but my knowledge of my subject is always greater than the interest or the understanding of my auditors. You see, there is one very good thing about mankind; the mediocre masses make very few demands of the mediocrities of a higher order, submitting stupidly and cheerfully to their guidance

The loveliest Muse in the world does not feed her owner; these girls make fine mistresses but terrible wives