Another fact that doesn't exactly brighten up our days is that Mr. Van Maaren, the man who works in the warehouse, is getting suspicious about the Annex.

Parents can only advise their children or point them in the right direction. Ultimately people shape their own characters.

Who would ever think that so much went on in the soul of a young girl?

Our blessed radio. It gives us eyes and ears out into the world. We listen to the German station only for good music. And we listen to the BBC for hope.

I must work, so as not to be a fool, to get on, to become a journalist, because that's what I want!... I can't imagine that I would have to lead the same sort of life as Mummyand all the women who do their work and are then forgotten. I must have something besides a husband and children, something that I can devote myself to!

One gets on better in life if one is not over modest.

I... keep trying to find a way to become what I'd like to be and what I could be if... if only there were no other people in the world.