Real bibliophiles do not put their books on shelves for people to look at or handle. They have no desire to show off their darlings, or to amaze people with their possessions. They keep their prized books hidden away in a secret spot to which they resort stealthily, like a Caliph visiting his harem, or a church elder sneaking into a bar. To be a book collector is to combine the worst characteristics of a dope-fiend with those of a miser.
Robertson DaviesPornography is rather like trying to find out about a Beethoven symphony by having somebody tell you about it and perhaps hum a few bars.
Robertson DaviesConversation in its true meaning isn't all wagging the tongue; sometimes it is a deeply shared silence.
Robertson DaviesIt is a waste of time to dissipate one's moral zeal in disapproving of royal persons who have mistresses.
Robertson Davies