We none of us talk to people as we do behind their backs.

[On writing:] What a difficult kind of work to choose! But of course one did not choose it. There was no choice.

Real charity and real ability never to condemn-the one real virtue-is so often the result of a waking experience that gives a glimpse of what lies beneath things.

As regards plot I find real life no help at all. Real life seems to have no plots. And as I think a plot desirable and almost necessary, I have this extra grudge against life.

We must use words as they are used, or stand aside from life.

There are different kinds of wrong. The people sinned against are not always the best.

Ah, we have to be generous to be grateful ... One has oneself to be a giver.