Gravity is of the very essence of imposture; it does not only mistake other things, but is apt perpetually almost to mistake itself.

Truth is the most powerful thing in the world, since even fiction itself must be governed by it, and can only please by its resemblance. The appearance of reality is necessary to make any passion agreeably represented, and to be able to move others we must be moved ourselves, or at least seem to be so, upon some probable grounds.

It is the hardest thing in the world to be a good thinker without being a good self examiner.

When men are easy in themselves, they let others remain so.

Remember that there is nothing in God but what is godlike; and that He is either not at all, or truly and perfectly good.

The most natural beauty in the world is honesty and moral truth. For all beauty is truth.

It is the same with understanding as with eyes; to a certain size and make, just so much light is necessary, and no more. Whatever is beyond brings darkness and confusion.