Lucidity, I maintain, is almost always desirable.

A spontaneous act of generosity, performed with unselfish grace is an example of moral beauty, as are certain acts of courage; genuine modesty is a possible example, as is selfless love. Although moral beauty is a natural gift, it is nevertheless more likely to emerge and flourish in societies that appreciate and encourage it.

It is by thoughtful reflection that the elusive moments of the past draw near to us in present reality and gain a measure of permanence.

Lucidity, I maintain, is almost always desirable.

Place is security, space is freedom.

All creative effort - including the making of an omelet - is preceded by destruction.

I feel a reassuring oneness with other people when I find that even my most intimate, anguished, socially inadmissible emotions and desires are known to others.... Kindred souls—indeed, my selves otherwise costumed—turn up in books in the most unexpected places. Discovering them is one of the great rewards of a liberal education. If I quote liberally, it is not to show off book learning, which at my stage of life can only invite ridicule, but rather to bathe in this kinship of strangers.