Quotes from Hercule Poirot

Methodical, determined and refined, Hercule Poirot's character is as complex as it is beloved. To celebrate a centenary of the character we've collated some of the famous Belgian detective's own words and opinions.

My name is Hercule Poirot, and I am probably the greatest detective in the world

The Mystery of the Blue Train, on his expertise

'Every murderer is probably somebody’s old friend', observed Poirot philosophically. 'You cannot mix up sentiment and reason.'

The Mysterious Affair at Styles, on suspects

Hercule Poirot's methods are his own. Order and method, and 'the little grey cells'.

The Big Four, on being an individual

I do not need to bend and measure the footprints and pick up the cigarette ends and examine the bent blades of grass. It is enough for me to sit back in my chair and think.

Five Little Pigs, on his methodical approach

Pardon, but your tie is not symmetrical. Permit that I rearrange him.

The Murder on the Links, on Hastings' appearance

It is not the past that matters, but the future

Death on the Nile, on progress

Understand this, I mean to arrive at the truth. The truth, however ugly in itself, is always curious and beautiful to seekers after it.

The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, on the art of detection

If the little grey cells are not exercised, they grow the rust.

The ABC Murders, on the importance of regular thinking

It is a profound belief of mine that if you can induce a person to talk to you for long enough, on any subject whatever! Sooner or later they will give themselves away.

After the Funeral, on human behaviour

"It is an art," he murmured, "the growing of the moustache! I have sympathy for all who attempt it."

'Double Sin', on moustaches

Only in England is the coffee so atrocious. On the Continent they understand how important it is for the digestion that it should be properly made.

The Big Four, Poirot on English coffee

The tallest books go in the top shelf, the next tallest in the row beneath, and so on. Thus we have order, method.

The Adventure of the Western Star, on his bookshelves

If you will allow Poirot to offer you a piece of wise advice: the pursuit of revenge is rarely a good idea.

The Mystery of Three Quarters, on revenge

Share your own favourite Belgian detective quotes with us on social media, using #100YearsofChristie. Discover Poirot's latest adventure, written by Sophie Hannah in The Killings at Kingfisher Hill.