I had no place in any coterie, or in any reciprocal self-advertising. I stood alone. I stood outside. I wanted only to learn. I wanted only to write better.

to be honest and yet popular is almost as difficult in literature as it is in life.

I revolted from sentimentality, less because it was false than because it was cruel.

A doctrine of endurance flows easily from our lips when we are enduring jam and our neighbors dry bread, and it is still possible for us to become resigned to the afflictions of our brother.

Dignity is an anachronism.

Too much principle is often more harmful than too little.

I don't like human nature, but I do like human beings.