It depends little on the object, much on the mood, in art.

The work of vegetation begins first in the irritability of the bark and leaf-buds.

People only see what they are prepared to see.

Gross and obscure natures, however decorated, seem impure shambles; but character gives splendor to youth, and awe to wrinkled skin and gray hairs.

A man must be clothed with society, or we shall feel a certain bareness and poverty, as of a displaced and unfurnished member. He is to be dressed in arts and institutions, as well as in body garments. Now and then a man exquisitely made can live alone, and must; but coop up most men and you undo them.

I am ashamed to think how easily we capitulate to badges and names, to large societies and dead institutions.

The soul raised over passion beholds identity and eternal causation, perceives the self-existance of Truth and Right, and calms itself with knowing that all things go well.