Hatred is always self hatred, and there is something suicidal about it.

But the relationship of morality and power is a very subtle one. Because ultimately power without morality is no longer power.

If you think too far ahead, if you even try to think too far ahead, you'll never make it.

The American idea of racial progress is measured by how fast I become white.

You're getting to be a big boy,' I said desperately, 'it's time you started thinking about your future.' 'I'm thinking about my future,' said Sonny, grimly. 'I think about it all the time.

I'm beginning to think that maybe everything that happens makes sense. Like, if it didn't make sense, how could it happen?

The making of an American begins at the point where he himself rejects all other ties, any other history, and himself adopts the vesture of his adopted land.