This emotion I'm feeling now, this is love, right?

Who would I be, if other good souls did not make up for my shortcomings?

The danger that keeps me just a little frightened with every book I write, however, is that I'll overreach myself once too often and try to write a story that I'm just plain not talented or skilful enough to write. That's the dilemma every storyteller faces. It is painful to fail. But it is far sadder when a storyteller stops wanting to try.

Human beings are free except when humanity needs them. Maybe humanity needs you. To do something. Maybe humanity needs me—to find out what you're good for. We might both do despicable things, Ender, but if humankind survives, then we were good tools.

A man always assumes that others are as virtuous as himself

It is a common trait of primates to become submissive and even worshipful toward one who has the power to kill them.

From all wise men, O Lord, protect us.