1,152 Quotes by Michel de Montaigne

All the opinions in the world point out that pleasure is our aim.

I consider myself an average man, except in the fact that I consider myself an average man.

I do not correct my first imaginings by my second--well, yes, perhaps a word or so, but only to vary, not to delete. I want to represent the course of my humors and I want people to see each part at its birth.

We must learn to suffer what we cannot evade.

For truth itself has not the privilege to be spoken at all times and in all sorts.

I am one of those who hold that poetry is never so blithe as in a wanton and irregular subject.

Obstinacy is the sister of constancy, at least in vigor and stability.

I, who am king of the matter I treat, and who owe an accounting for it to no one, do not for all that believe myself in all I write. I often hazard sallies of my mind which I mistrust.

Few men are admired by their servants.