“The purity of a revolution can last a fortnight. That is why a poet, the revolutionary of the soul, limits himself to the about-turns of the mind. ”

“The poet doesn't invent. He listens. ”

“If a poet has a dream, it is not of becoming famous, but of being believed.”

“A true poet does not bother to be poetical. Nor does a nursery gardener scent his roses. ”

“An artist cannot speak about his art anymore than a plant can discuss horticulture.”

“What uniform can I wear to hide my heavy heart? It is too heavy. It will always show.Jacques felt himself growing gloomy again. He was well aware that to live on earth a man must follow its fashions, and hearts were no longer worn.”

“May the devil himself splatter you with dung.”