Running the big rapids is like sex: half the fun lies in the anticipation. Two thirds of the thrill with the approach. The remainder is only ecstasy-or darkness.

Money confers the power to command the labor of others. Love of money is love of power. And love of power is the root of evil.

Girls: I never wanted them all. Just all the ones I wanted.

Within minutes my 115-mile walk through the desert hills becomes a thing apart, a disjunct reality on the far side of a bottomless abyss, immediately beyond physical recollection.But it's all still there in my heart and soul. The walk, the hills, the sky, the solitary pain and pleasure-they will grow larger, sweeter, lovelier in the days to come, like a treasure found and then, voluntarily, surrendered. Returned to the mountains with my blessing. It leaves a golden glowing on the mind.

Married couples who quarrel bitterly every day may really need each other as deeply as those who appear to be desperately in love.

Each thing in its way, when true to its own character, is equally beautiful. (p 41)

Women who love only women may have a good point.