Every high C accurately struck demolishes the theory that we are the irresponsible puppets of fate or chance.

Geniuses are the luckiest of mortals because what they must do is the same as what they most want to do.

Attacking bad books is not only a waste of time but also bad for the character. If I find a book really bad, the only interest I can derive from writing about it has to come from myself, from such display of intelligence, wit and malice as I can contrive. One cannot review a bad book without showing off.

If time were the wicked sheriff in a horse opera, I'd pay for riding lessons and take his gun away.

It's a pity I am so impatient and careless, as any ordinary person could learn all the techniques of photography in a week. It is the democratic art, i.e. technical skill is practically eliminated - the more foolproof cameras become with focusing and exposure gadgets the better - and artistic quality depends only on choice of subject.

We are all here on earth to help others; what on earth the others are here for I don't know.

Poetry might be defined as the clear expression of mixed feelings.