Money is made at Christmas out of holly and mistletoe, but who save the vendors would greatly care if no green branch were procurable? One symbol, indeed, has obscured all others-the minted round of metal. And one may safely say that, of all the ages since a coin first became the symbol of power, ours is that in which it yields to the majority of its possessors the poorest return in heart's contentment.
George GissingLife, I fancy, would very often be insupportable, but for the luxury of self compassion.
George GissingTo every man it is decreed: Thou shalt live alone. Happy they who imagine that they have escaped the common lot; happy, whilst they imagine it.
George GissingA pipe for the hour of work; a cigarette for the hour of conception; a cigar for the hour of vacuity.
George Gissing