We should all do what, in the long run, gives us joy, even if it is only picking grapes or sorting the laundry.

There is a decivilizing bug somewhere at work; unconsciously persons of stern worth, by not resenting and resisting the small indignities of the times, are preparing themselves for the eventual acceptance of what they themselves know they don't want.

Writing is hard work and bad for the health.

Stuart rose from the ditch, climbed into his car, and started up the road that led toward the north...As he peeked ahead into the great land that stretched before him, the way seemed long. But the sky was bright, and he somehow felt he was headed in the right direction.

Diplomacy is the lowest form of politeness because it misquotes the greatest number of people. A nation, like an individual, if it has anything to say, should simply say it.

Reading is the work of the alert mind, is demanding, and under ideal conditions produces finally a sort of ecstasy.

Familiarity is the thing-the sense of belonging. It grants exemption from all evil, all shabbiness.