I have always felt as though I needed a weapon against evil.

Enthusiasm is the electricity of life. How do you get it? You act enthusiastic until you make it a habit. Enthusiasm is natural; it is being alive, taking the initiative, seeing the importance of what you do, giving it dignity and making what you do important to yourself and to others.

I saw that the camera could be a weapon against poverty, against racism, against all sorts of social wrongs. I knew at that point I had to have a camera.

Many times I wondered whether my achievement was worth the loneliness I experienced, but now I realize the price was small.

Washington, D.C. in 1942 was not the easiest place in the world for a Negro to get along.

I think most people can do a whole lot more if they just try.

But I do feel a little teeny right now that I'm just about ready to start, and winter is entering. Half past autumn has arrived.