The use of a thing is only a part of its significance. To know anything thoroughly, to have the full command of it in all its appliances, we must study it on its own account, independently of any special application.

One doesn't always lose when one has to do without.

The sun had, in the meanwhile, sunk behind the Ettersberg. We felt in the wood the chill of the evening, and drove all the quicker to Wiemar, and to Goethe's house. Goethe urged me to go in with him for a while, and I did so. He was in an extremely engaging mood. He talked a great deal about his theory of colors, and of his obstinate opponents; remarking that he was sure that he had done something in this science.

There is not a single outward mark of courtesy that does not have a deep moral basis.

He who does not think much of himself is much more esteemed than he imagines.

There is but one poetry,--true poetry.

All understanding begins in wonder!