If you cannot write well, you cannot think well; if you cannot think well, others will do your thinking for you.

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.

Now it seems to me that love of some kind is the only possible explanation of the extraordinary amount of suffering that there is in the world.

My great mistake, the fault for which I can’t forgive myself, is that one day I ceased my obstinate pursuit of my own individuality.

How marriage ruins a man! It is as demoralizing as cigarettes, and far more expensive.

We live in an age that reads too much to be wise, and that thinks too much to be beautiful.

You silly Arthur! If you knew anything about...anything, which you don't, you would know that I adore you. Everyone in London knows it except you. It is a public scandal the way I adore you. I have been going about for the last six months telling the whole of society that I adore you. I wonder you consent to have anything to say to me. I have no character left at all. At least, I feel so happy that I am quite sure I have no character left at all.