"Those who are believed to be most abject and humble are usually most ambitious and envious."

"Ambition is the immoderate desire for power."

"To give aid to every poor man is far beyond the reach and power of every man. Care of the poor is incumbent on society as a whole."

"Fear cannot be without hope nor hope without fear."

"I would feel more optimistic about a bright future for man if he spent less time proving that he can outwit Nature and more time tasting her sweetness and respecting her seniority."

"Controversy is part of the nature of art and creativity."

"I trust in nature for the stable laws of beauty and utility. Spring shall plant and autumn garner to the end of time."

"If you don't know how to die, don't worry Nature will tell you what to do on the spot, fully and adequately. She will do this job perfectly for you don't bother your head about it."