... up to this date, I have never been shut up in a separate room, or hedged off with any observances. My study, all the study I have attained to, is the little 2nd drawing room where all the (feminine) life of the house goes on; and I don't think I have ever had two hours undisturbed (except at night, when everybody is in bed) during my whole literary life.

every generation has a conceit of itself which elevates it, in its own opinion, above that which comes after it.

All perfection is melancholy.

What happiness is there which is not purchased with more or less of pain?

It is so seldom in this world that things come just when they are wanted.

Good works may only be beautiful sins, if they are not done in a true spirit.

Oh, never mind the fashion. When one has a style of one's own, it is always twenty times better.