All time is eternal, moving inexorably toward an end which we believe is a result of our actions, but over which our control is mere illusion.

Taking the question in general, I should say, in the case of many poets, that the most important thing for them to do ... is to write as little as possible

We must believe that "emotion recollected in tranquillity" is an inexact formula. For it is neither emotion, nor recollection, nor without distortion of meaning, tranquillity. It is a concentration, and a new thing resulting from the concentration of a very great number of experiences which to the practical and active person would not seem to be experiences at all; it is a concentration which does not happen consciously or of deliberation. These experiences are not "recollected" and they finally unite in an atmosphere which is "tranquil" only in that it is a passive attending upon the event.

We are not here to triumph by fighting, by strata gem, or by resistance, not to fight with beasts as men. We have fought the beast and have conquered. We have only to conquer now, by suffering. This is the easier victory.

A condition of complete simplicity (Costing not less than everything)

Whatever you do, don't whimper, but take the consequences.

I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each. I do not think that they will sing to me.