To protect myself from the rear, I have to stand slantwise.

As long as there shall be stones, the seeds of fire will not die.

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?

The most important thing... was to change their spirit; and since at that time I felt that literature was the best means to this end, I decided to promote literary movement.

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

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.

Though science has given us many marvels, it has also spoiled many of our pleasant dreams.