HENRI FABRE, L’ESPRIT PIONNIER.

« When I was very young, I thought that giving myself wings would be the most beautiful discovery that man could make.

Then I had the impression that: at the point where science was, I was probably arriving at the time when this discovery became possible. Finally, I came to think that I might have some elements of success if I tackled this problem, and that, therefore, I should do it. And then it was a long and immense joy to search in human knowledge what could throw light on the question, to observe in nature what it could teach us, to strive modestly at first, then with increased means, to realize my dream.

Others have preceded me and found the complete solution; but this has not diminished for me the attraction of this effort, and the small share of success I have obtained has been enough to fill me. »

Tribute to Henri Fabre. Extract from his book « I saw the birth of aviation »