That is the reason, in my opinion, why, among so many men of talent, France to-day counts not one great writer.

In a society like ours, to seek for literary glory seems to me an anachronism.

Of what use is it to invoke an ancient sibyl when a muse is on the eve of birth?
Pitiable actors in a tragedy nearing its end, that which it behooves us to do is to precipitate the catastrophe.

The most deserving among us is he who plays best this part.

Well, I no longer aspire to this sad success! "Why should I not confess it, gentlemen?
I have aspired to your suffrages and sought the title of your pensioner, hating all which exists and full of projects for its destruction; I shall finish this investigation in a spirit of calm and philosophical resignation.