America is not civil, whilst Africa is barbarous.

Whoso would be a man, must be a nonconformist. He who would gather immortal palms must not be hindered by the name of goodness, but must explore it if it be goodness. Nothing is at last sacred but the integrity of your own mind. Absolve you to yourself, and you shall have the suffrage of the world.

Fashion understands itself; good-breeding and personal superiority of whatever country readily fraternize with those of every other. The chiefs of savage tribes have distinguished themselves in London and Paris, by the purity of their tournure.

The religion of England is part of good-breeding. When you see on the continent the well-dressed Englishman come into his ambassador's chapel and put his face for silent prayer into his smooth-brushed hat, you cannot help feeling how much national pride prays with him, and the religion of a gentleman.

When a man does not write his poetry, it escapes by other vents through him.

Others can get in your way temporarily, but only you can get out of your way permanently. Our best thoughts come from others.

Art is not to be found by touring to Egypt, China, or Peru; if you cannot find it at your own door, you will never find it.