Those have not lived who have not seen Rome.

What I mean by the Muse is that unimpeded clearness of the intuitive powers, which a perfectly truthful adherence to every admonition of the higher instincts would bring to a finely organized human being. It may appear as prophesy or as poesy...should these faculties have free play, I believe they will open up new, deeper and purer sources of joyous inspiration than have as yet refreshed the earth.

Next to invention is the power of interpreting invention; next to beauty the power of appreciating beauty.

Harmony exists no less in difference than in likeness, if only the same key-note govern both parts.

Tragedy is always a mistake; and the loneliness of the deepest thinker, the widest lover, ceases to be pathetic to us so soon as the sun is high enough above the mountains.

... the Power who gave a power, by its mere existence, signifies that it must be brought out towards perfection.

The use of criticism, in periodical writing, is to sift, not to stamp a work.