It is either easy or impossible.

The sole difference between myself and a madman is the fact that I am not mad!

I dedicate this novel to Gala, who was constantly by my side while I was writing it, who was the good fairy of my equilibrium, who banished the salamanders of my doubts and strengthened the lions of certainties...

The reason some portraits don't look true to life is that some people make no effort to resemble their pictures.

At the age of six I wanted to be a cook. At seven I wanted to be Napoleon. And my ambition has been growing steadily ever since.

Have no fear of perfection - you'll never reach it.