We are told of the honor of the army; we are supposed to love and respect it. Ah, yes, of course, an army that would rise to the first threat, that would defend French soil, that army is the nation itself, and for that army we have nothing but devotion and respect. But this is not about that army, whose dignity we are seeking, in our cry for justice. What is at stake is the sword, the master that will one day, perhaps, be forced upon us. Bow and scrape before that sword, that god? No!
(J'accuse!, 1898)

Emile Zola

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There are two men inside the artist, the poet and the craftsman. One is born a poet. One becomes a craftsman.

Emile Zola (Letter to Paul Cézanne, 1860)

Don't go looking at me like that because you'll wear your eyes out.

Emile Zola (Les Rougon-Macquart - La Bête humaine, 1890)

Truth is on the march; nothing can stop it now.

Emile Zola (La Figaro, 1897)

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