Invention strictly speaking, is little more than a new combination of those images which have been previously gathered and deposited in the memory; nothing can come from nothing.

Invention strictly speaking, is little more than a new combination of those images which have been previously gathered and deposited in the memory; nothing can come from nothing.

There is no expedient to which a man will not resort to avoid the real labor of thinking.

If you have great talents, industry will improve them: if you have but moderate abilities, industry will supply their deficiency.

Simplicity is an exact mediumbetween too little and too much.

The young mind is pliable and imitates, but in more advanced states grows rigid and must be warmed and softened before it will receive a deep impression.

Common observation and a plain understanding is the source of all art.