Théophile Gautier Quote

Many benefit by the caresses they have not inspired; many a vulgar reality serves as a pedestal to an ideal idol.


A Thousand Flashes of French Wit, Wisdom, and Wickedness (1886)


Many benefit by the caresses they have not inspired; many a vulgar reality serves as a pedestal to an ideal idol.

Many benefit by the caresses they have not inspired; many a vulgar reality serves as a pedestal to an ideal idol.

Many benefit by the caresses they have not inspired; many a vulgar reality serves as a pedestal to an ideal idol.

Many benefit by the caresses they have not inspired; many a vulgar reality serves as a pedestal to an ideal idol.