The most horrible thing is not a government that stages public executions, but a government that secretly disposes of its victims.

But anyone who thinks themselves genuinely unbiased is bound to be taken in.

I naturally believe there will be a future, but I do not waste my time imagining its radiant beauty. ... It seems to me that we ought to think first about the present. Even if the present is desperately dark, I do not wish to leave it. Will tomorrow be free from darkness? We'll talk about that tomorrow.

True, we must dare look things in the face before we dare think, speak, act, or assume responsibility. If we dare not even look, what else are we good for?

I entreat fresh visions from the painters. Be lavish with your vermilion to portray the mountains in the spring.

You have to reform yourself before reforming society and the world.

Hope is like a path in the countryside.