5 Best Voltaire Quotes

“All is for the best in the best of all possible worlds.”

Pangloss repeatedly utters this phrase, the core of his optimistic philosophy, which Candide and others echo throughout the novel.

“We must cultivate our garden.”

Candide's final words, spoken to Pangloss after they settle on the farm, expressing the conclusion that practical work is the only meaningful response to life's suffering.

“If this is the best of all possible worlds, what are the others?”

Candide says this after witnessing the Lisbon earthquake and the auto-da-fé, expressing his growing doubt about Pangloss's optimism.

“It is the love of life; it is the desire to live, which makes us cling to existence.”

The old woman says this when explaining why humans continue to endure suffering rather than end their lives.

“I have seen the worst; I have seen the best; and I have seen the middle.”

The old woman reflects on her varied experiences, underscoring the theme of universal suffering.