Set me a task in which I can put something of my very self, and it is a task no longer; it is joy; it is art.

There is only one way in the world to be distinguished. Follow your instinct! Be yourself, and you'll be somebody. Be one more blind follower of the blind, and you will have the oblivion you desire.

The greatest joy in nature is the absence of man.

I often wish... that I could rid the world of the tyranny of facts. What are facts but compromises? A fact merely marks the point where we have agreed to let investigation cease.

The first need of being is endurance; to endure with gladness if we can, with fortitude in any event.

Have little care that Life is brief, And less that Art is long. Success is in the silences Though Fame is in the song.

It is not being out at heels that makes a man discontented, it is being out at heart. To be contented is to be good friends with yourself.