An author in his book must be like God in the universe, pres... - Gustave Flaubert

"Do not read as children do to enjoy themselves, or, as the ambitious do to educate themselves. No, read to live."

"The public wants work which flatters its illusions."

"Do not read, as children do, to amuse yourself, or like the ambitious, for the purpose of instruction. No, read in order to live."

"Be steady and well-ordered in your life so that you can be fierce and original in your work."

"You don’t make art out of good intentions."