But the most wretched thing, is it not-is to drag out, as I do, a useless existence. If our pains were only of some use to someone, we should find consolation in the thought of the sacrifice.

It's a delicious thing to write. To be no longer yourself but to move in an entire universe of your own creating.

Talent is a long patience, and originality an effort of will and intense observation.

To be stupid, selfish, and have good health are three requirements for happiness, though if stupidity is lacking, all is lost.

The art of writing is the art of discovering what you believe.

Whatever the thing you wish to say, there is but one word to express it, but one verb to give it movement, but one adjective to qualify it; you must seek until you find this noun, this verb, this adjective.

Casting aspersions on those we love always does something to loosen our ties. We shouldn't maltreat our idols: the gilt comes off on our hands.