We wake from one dream into another dream.

Silence is a solvent that destroys personality, and gives us leave to be great and universal.

The difference between talent and genius is in the direction of the current: in genius, it is from within outward; in talent from without inward.

Virtues are, in the popular estimate, rather the exception than the rule. There is the man and his virtues.

Let not a man guard his dignity, but let his dignity guard him.

I think no virtue goes with size.

The spirit only can teach. Not any profane man, not any sensual, not any liar, not any slave can teach, but only he can give, whohas; he only can create, who is. The man on whom the soul descends, through whom the soul speaks, alone can teach. Courage, piety, love, wisdom, can teach; and every man can open his door to these angels, and they shall bring him the gift of tongues. But the man who aims to speak as books enable, as synods use, as the fashion guides, and as interest commands, babbles. Let him hush.