Everyone must imagine his own snakes because no one else's snakes can ever be as awful.

Dogs are mute and obedient, but they have watched us and know us and can smell how pitiful we are.

Lie on the bridge and watch the water flowing past. Or run, or wade through the swamp in your red boots. Or roll yourself up and listen to the rain falling on the roof. It's very easy to enjoy yourself.

Making a journey by night is more wonderful than anything in the world.

All things are so very uncertain, and that's exactly what makes me feel reassured.

I love borders. August is the border between summer and autumn; it is the most beautiful month I know. Twilight is the border between day and night, and the shore is the border between sea and land. The border is longing: when both have fallen in love but still haven't said anything. The border is to be on the way. It is the way that is the most important thing.

It’s strange,” Moominmamma thought. “Strange that people can be sad, and even angry because life is too easy. But that’s the way it is, I suppose. The only thing to do is to start life afresh.