Language, after all, is only the use of symbols, and Art also can only affect us through symbols.

A man may be variously accomplished, and yet be a feeble poet.

Books minister to our knowledge, to our guidance, and to our delight, by their truth, their uprightness, and their art.

In Science the paramount appeal is to the Intellect-its purpose being instruction; in Art, the paramount appeal is to the Emotions-its purpose being pleasure.

It is not true that a man can believe or disbelieve what he will. But it is certain that an active desire to find any proposition true will unconsciously tend to that result by dismissing importunate suggestions which run counter to the belief, and welcoming those which favor it. The psychological law, that we only see what interests us, and only assimilate what is adapted to our condition, causes the mind to select its evidence.

Good writers are of necessity rare.

All great authors are seers.