The trick is to find happiness in the brief gaps between disasters.

No-one can function properly without occasional peace and quiet.

Though they live far from the coast, they retain a great fascination and passion for the ocean. The sound of crashing waves, the smell of salt air, it affects them deeply and has inspired many of their lovliest songs. There is one that tells of this love, if you want to hear it.

Until we invent telepathy, books are our best choice for understanding the rest of humanity.

A good compromise leaves everyone angry.

You'll enjoy it. There is much you can learn from books and scrolls," said Jeod. He gestured at the walls. "These books are my friends, my companions. They make me laugh and cry and find meaning in life." "It sounds intriguing," admitted Eragon. "Always the scholar, aren't you?" asked Brom. Jeod shrugged. "Not anymore. I'm afraid I've degenerated into a bibliophile.

It got so that when he closed his eyes, letters and words danced in his mind. He thought of little else during that time.