The Portrait of a Lady is entirely successful in giving one the sense of having met somebody far too radiantly good for this world.
Rebecca WestSubmission to poverty is the unpardonable sin against the body. Submission to unhappiness is the unpardonable sin against the spirit.
Rebecca WestMy memory is certainly in my hands. I can remember things only if I have a pencil and I can write with it and I can play with it. ... I think your hand concentrates for you. I don't know why it should be so.
Rebecca Westthe bad is more easily perceived than the good. A fresh lobster does not give such pleasure to the consumer as a stale one will give him pain.
Rebecca West