The severest critics are always those who have either never attempted, or who have failed in original composition.

I hate to be near the sea, and to hear it roaring and raging like a wild beast in its den. It puts me in mind of the everlasting efforts of the human mind, struggling to be free, and ending just where it began.

There is nothing more to be esteemed than a manly firmness and decision of character.

One truth discovered, one pang of regret at not being able to express it, is better than all the fluency and flippancy in the world.

Poetry is all that is worth remembering in life.

True modesty and true pride are much the same thing: both consist in setting a just value on ourselves - neither more nor less.

When I take up a book I have read before, I know what to expect; the satisfaction is not lessened by being anticipated. I shake hands with, and look our old tried and valued friend in the face,--compare notes and chat the hour away.