To invent out of knowledge means to produce inventions that are true. Every man should have a built-in automatic crap detector operating inside him. It also should have a manual drill and a crank handle in case the machine breaks down. If you're going to write, you have to find out what's bad for you. Part of that you learn fast, and then you learn what's good for you.

Of all men the drunkard is the foulest. The thief when he is not stealing is like another. The extortioner does not practice in the home. The murderer when he is at home can wash his hands. But the drunkard stinks and vomits in this own bed and dissolves his organs in alcohol.

My life used to be full of everything. Now if you aren't with me I haven't a thing in the world.

There is a mystery in all great writing and that mystery does not dissect out. It continues and is always valid.

It was considered a virtue not to talk unnecessarily at sea.

Never confuse motions with action.

All good books have one thing in common - they are truer than if they had really happened.