We admire Chaucer for his sturdy English wit.... But though it is full of good sense and humanity, it is not transcendent poetry.For picturesque description of persons it is, perhaps, without a parallel in English poetry; yet it is essentially humorous, as the loftiest genius never is.
Henry David ThoreauI would give all the wealth of the world, and all the deeds of all the heroes, for one true vision.
Henry David ThoreauSome things are really necessaries of life in some circles, which in others are luxuries merely and in others still are entirely unknown.
Henry David ThoreauIt is not enough to be a hardworking person. Equally important is the job you are working at.
Henry David ThoreauWhat is the price-current of an honest man and patriot to-day? They hesitate, and they regret, and sometimes they petition; but they do nothing in earnest and with effect. They will wait, well disposed, for others to remedy the evil, that they may no longer have it to regret. At most, they give only a cheap vote, and a feeble countenance and Godspeed, to the right, as it goes by them.
Henry David Thoreau