A beautiful behavior is better than a beautiful form; it gives a higher pleasure than statues or pictures; it is the finest of fine arts.

The philanthropists inquire whether Transcendentalism does not mean sloth: they had as lief hear that their friend is dead, as that he is a Transcendentalist; for then is he paralyzed, and can never do anything for humanity.

We are all wise for other people, none for himself.

The "times," "the age" what is that, but a few profound persons and a few active persons who epitomize the times?

Every man beholds his human condition with a degree of melancholy. As a ship aground is battered by the waves, so man, imprisonedin mortal life, lies open to the mercy of coming events.

To finish the moment, to find the journey's end in every step of the road, to live the greatest number of good hours, is wisdom.

Good criticism is very rare and always precious.