1,221 Quotes by François de La Rochefoucauld

Timidity is a fault for which it is dangerous to reprove persons whom we wish to correct of it.

Avarice is more directly opposed to thrift than generosity is.

A man often thinks he rules himself, when all the while he is ruled and managed; and while his understanding directs one design, his affections imperceptibly draw him into another.

We are not fond of praising, and never praise any one except from interested motives. Praise is a clever, concealed, and delicate flattery, which gratifies in different ways the giver and the receiver. The one takes it as a recompense of his merit, and the other bestows it to display his equity and discernment.

A clever man should handle his interests so that each will fall in suitable order of their value.

If we have not peace within ourselves, it is in vain to seek it from outward sources.

We forget our faults easily when they are known to ourselves alone.

I always say to myself, what is the most important thing we can think about at this extraordinary moment.

We forgive so long as we love.