A man must be in sympathy with society around him, or else, not wish to be in sympathy with it. If neither of these two, he must be wretched.

Europe extends to the Alleghenies; America lies beyond.

We must learn the language of facts. The most wonderful inspirations die with their subject, if he has no hand to paint them to the senses.

What matters most is not what is behind us or before us, but what is within us.

We ascribe beauty to that which is simple; which has no superfluous parts; which exactly answers its end; which stands related to all things; which is the mean of many extremes.

But do your work, and I shall know you. Do your work, and you shall reinforce yourself.

The finest poetry was first experience.