It all begins when the soul would have its way with you.

Other world? There is no other world; here or nowhere is the whole fact.

We must not inquire too curiously into the absolute value of literature. Enough that it amuses and exercises us. At least it leaves us where we were. It names things, but does not add things.

There is no doctrine of the Reason which will bear to be taught by the Understanding.

Rings and jewels are not gifts, but apologies for gifts. The only gift is a portion of thyself. Thou must bleed for me. Therefore the poet brings his poem; the shepherd, his lamb; the farmer, corn; the miner, a stone; the painter, his picture; the girl, a handkerchief of her own sewing.

Sincerity is the highest complement you can pay

A man of no conversation should smoke.