The word civilization to my mind is coupled with death. When I use the word, I see civilization as a crippling, thwarting thing, a stultifying thing. For me it was always so. I don't believe in the golden ages, you see... civilization is the arteriosclerosis of culture.

Develop an interest in life as you see it; the people, things, literature, music - the world is so rich, simply throbbing with rich treasures, beautiful souls and interesting people. Forget yourself.

I will never again go to people under false pretenses even if it is to give them the Holy Bible. I will never again sell anything, even if I have to starve. I am going home now and I will sit down and really write about people.

Even if it doesn't work, there is something healthy and invigorating about direct action

New York has a trip-hammer vitality which drives you insane with restlessness if you have no inner stabilizer.

Life moves on, whether we act as cowards or heroes.

To know Paris is to know a great deal.