Composition is a process of combination, in which thought puts together complementary truths, and talent fuses into harmony the most contrary qualities of style. So that there is no composition without effort, without pain even, as in all bringing forth. The reward is the giving birth to something living--something, that is to say, which, by a kind of magic, makes a living unity out of such opposed attributes as orderliness and spontaneity, thought and imagination, solidity and charm.

Time and space are fragments of the infinite for the use of finite creatures.

There is only one way of not hating those who do us wrong, and that is by doing them good.

Every man is a priest, even involuntarily; his conduct is an unspoken sermon, which is forever preaching to others.

I wonder whether I should gain anything by the attempt to assume a character which is not mine. My wavering manner, born of doubt and scruple, has at least the advantage of rendering all the different shades of my thought, and of being sincere. If it were to become terse, affirmative, resolute, would it not be a mere imitation?

Sadness takes up the pen more readily than joy.

Mother of Marvels, mysterious and tender Nature, why do we not live more in thee.