But the beginning of things, of a world especially, is necessarily vague, chaotic, and exceedingly disturbing. How few of us ever emerge from such beginning! How many souls perish in its tumult! The voice of the sea is seductive; never ceasing, whispering, clamoring, murmuring, inviting the soul to wander for a spell in abysses of solitude; to lose itself in mazes of inward contemplation. The voice of the sea speaks to the soul. The touch of the sea is sensuous, enfolding the body in its soft, close embrace.

I should never deem a man of ordinary caliber worthy of my devotion.

The city atmosphere certainly has improved her. Some way she doesn't seem like the same woman.

The peace and beauty of a spring day had descended upon the earth like a benediction.

I would give up the unessential; I would give my money, I would give my life for my children; but I wouldn't give myself.

Have you ever heard the earth breath?

You have been a very foolish boy, wasting your time dreaming of impossible things when you speak of Mr. Pontellier setting me free! I am no longer one of Mr. Pontelliere's possessions to dispose of or not. I give myself where I choose. If he were to say, 'Here Robert, take her and be happy; she is yours,' I should laugh at you both.