The past could always be annihilated. Regret, denial, or forgetfulness could do that. But the future was inevitable.

I write because it gives me the greatest possible artistic pleasure to write. If my work pleases the few I am gratified. As for the mob, I have no desire to be a popular novelist. It is far too easy.

The sin was mine; I did not understand. So now is music prisoned in her cave, Save where some ebbing desultory wave Frets with its restless whirls this meagre strand.

This suspense is terrible. I hope it will last.

To look at a thing is very different from seeing it.

the costume of the nineteenth century is detestable. It is so sombre, so depressing. Sin is the only real colour-element left in modern life.

A live unexamined isn't worth living. I will add, "A life unlived isn't worth examining.