Jean Cocteau Quotes

Art is not a pastime but a priesthood.

I have lost my seven best friends, which is to say God has had mercy on me seven times without realizing it. He lent a friendship, took it from me, sent me another.

I only fear the death of others. For me, true death is that of the people I love

All spiritual journeys are martyrdoms

A picture neither saddening nor gladdening I fear; neither beautiful nor ugly.

People would say to Al Brown: "You are not a boxer. You are a dancer." He laughed at this, and won.

Imitate, and what is personal will eventually come despite yourself.

Each day in the mirror I watch death at work.

Mirrors should think longer before they reflect.

What the public criticizes in you, cultivate. It is you.

It is excruciating to be an unbeliever with a spirit that is deeply religious.

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

What uniform can I wear to hide my heavy heart? It is too heavy. It will always show.

The prettiest dresses are worn to be taken off.

See your disappointments as good fortune. One plan's deflation is another's inflation.