Desire is the very essence of man.

Human history is in essence a history of ideas.

In essence, if we want to direct our lives, we must take control of our consistent actions. It's not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives, but what we do consistently.

The essence of being human is that one does not seek perfection.

The essence of knowledge is, having it, to apply it; not having it, to confess your ignorance.

The essence of life is statistical improbability on a colossal scale.

The very essence of instinct is that it's followed independently of reason.

The very essence of romance is uncertainty.