You spoke your words as though you denied the very existence of the shadows or of evil. Think, now: where would your good be if there were no evil and what would the world look like without shadow?

Cowardice is the most terrible of vices.

Everything will turn out right, the world is built on that.

You should never ask anyone for anything. Never- and especially from those who are more powerful than yourself.

Yes, man is mortal, but that would be only half the trouble. The worst of it is that he's sometimes unexpectedly mortal—there's the trick!

The tongue may hide the truth but the eyes—never!

No one's fate is of any interest to you except your own.

But what can be done, the one who loves must share the fate of the one he loves.

I don't have any special talents, just an ordinary desire to live like a human being.

Why do smart people exist, if not to figure out convoluted problems?

Annushka has already bought the sunflower oil, and has not only bought it, but has already spilled it.

I know having a job can sometimes be very challenging, but not having one can be too.

I've been thinking. You'd better be my bridesmaid, since you gave me the idea that led to this whole farce. It's a horrible job, I'm sure, so you deserve it. Plus, you're my friend. Will you do it?

It's amazing to me the number of people who will volunteer to help at church but won't lift a finger to help at home!

People fascinate the hell out of me. I never get tired of watching people, listening to people. The best part is not getting up in front of people but meeting people.

There is no more democratic government than a revolutionary government.

Never laugh at anyone's dreams.

I'm a sucker for a man who giggles-not a high-pitched serial-killer sort of giggle, but a lighthearted laugh.

The most important thing about winning is believing that you can win no matter who you are playing.

Happiness is the art of relaxation.

We can't predict the future.