Proverbs are for the most part rules of moral, or, still more properly, of prudential conduct.

Fiction supplies the only philosophy that may readers know; it establishes their ethical, social, and material standards; it confirms them in their prejudices or opens their minds to a wider world.

it is the sum of small things successfully done that lifts a life out of bondage to the humdrum.

Writing calls on unused muscles and involves solitude and immobility.

There are seeds of self-destruction in all of us that will bear only unhappiness if allowed to grow.

Old habits are strong and jealous.

Act boldly and unforeseen forces will come to your aid.