There is an art of reading, as well as an art of thinking, and an art of writing.

The test of a civilized person is first self-awareness, and then depth after depth of sincerity in self-confrontation.

Elephants suffer from too much patience. Their exhibitions of it may seem superb,-such power and such restraint, combined, are noble,-but a quality carried to excess defeats itself.

The creatures that want to live a life of their own, we call wild. If wild, then no matter how harmless, we treat them as outlaws, and those of us who are specially well brought up shoot them for fun.

The poets of each generation seldom sing a new song. They turn to themes men always have loved, and sing them in the mode of their times.

Real friendships among men are so rare that when they occur they are famous.

If you don't go to other men's funerals, they won't go to yours.