“Man lives consciously for himself, but is an unconscious instrument in the attainment of the historic, universal aims of humanity.” — Leo Tolstoy · War and Peace, 1869
“There is no greatness where there is no simplicity, goodness, and truth.” — Leo Tolstoy · War and Peace, 1869
“I sit on a man's back, choking him and making him carry me, and yet assure myself and others that I am very sorry for him and wish to ease his lot by all possible means — except by getting off his back.” — Leo Tolstoy · What Then Must We Do?, 1886
“All violence consists in some people forcing others, under threat of suffering or death, to do what they do not want to do.” — Leo Tolstoy · The Kingdom of God Is Within You, 1894