It is true that the discerning intellect of the world is always much in advance of the creative, so that there are competent judges of the best book, and few writers of the best books.

The love that you withhold is the pain that you carry.

Neither is life long enough for friendship. That is a serious and majestic affair.

When he is pushed, tormented, defeated, he has a chance to learn something; ... he learns his ignorance, is cured of the insanity of conceit; has got moderation and real skill.

The narrow sectarian cannot read astronomy with impunity. The creeds of his church shrivel like dried leaves at the door of the observatory.

Every day, a little sadder, a little madder. Will someone get me a ladder?

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.