It is better that some should be unhappy rather than that none should be happy, which would be the case in a general state of equality.

Economy is the parent of integrity, of liberty, and of ease, and the beauteous sister of temperance, of cheerfulness and health.

Whoever desires, for his writings or himself, what none can reasonably contemn, the favour of mankind, must add grace to strength, and make his thoughts agreeable as well as useful. Many complain of neglect who never tried to attract regard.

Madam, before you flatter a man so grossly to his face, you should consider whether or not your flattery is worth his having.

Ye who listen with credulity to the whispers of fancy, and pursue with eagerness the phantoms of hope; who expect that age will perform the promises of youth, and that the deficiencies of the present day will be supplied by the morrow, - attend to the history of Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia.

It is much easier not to write like a man than to write like a woman.

I never desire to converse with a man who has written more than he has read.