All the past is here, present to be tried; let it approve itself if it can.

To be a philosopher is not merely to have subtle thoughts, nor even to found a school, but so to love wisdom as to live according to its dictates, a life of simplicity, independence, magnanimity, and trust.

Color, which is the poet's wealth, is so expensive that most take to mere outline sketches and become men of science.

The best poets, after all, exhibit only a tame and civil side of nature. They have not seen the west side of any mountain.

The poet is he that hath fat enough, like bears and marmots, to suck his claws all winter.

A farmer, a hunter, a soldier, a reporter, even a philosopher, may be daunted; but nothing can deter a poet, for he is actuated by pure love.

Who can predict his comings and goings? His business calls him out at all hours, even when doctors sleep.

We begin to praise when we begin to see a thing needs our assistance.

I know of no redeeming qualities in myself but a sincere love for some things, and when I am reproved I fall back on to this ground.

It is an interesting question how far men would retain their relative rank if they were divested of their clothes.