In short, I am convinced, both by faith and experience, that to maintain one's self on this earth is not a hardship but a pastime, if we will live simply and wisely; as the pursuits of the simpler nations are still the sports of the more artificial.

If thousands are thrown out of employment, it suggests that they were not well employed. Why don't they take the hint? It is not enough to be industrious; so are the ants. What are you industrious about?

It is tranquil people who accomplish much.

I will not allow mere names to make distinctions for me, but still see men in herds for all them.

Alas! how little does the memory of these human inhabitants enhance the beauty of the landscape!

The only obligation which I have a right to assume is to do at any time what I think right.

Some poems are for holidays only. They are polished and sweet, but it is the sweetness of sugar, and not such as toil gives to sour bread. The breath with which the poet utters his verse must be that by which he lives.