Let us speak, though we show all our faults and weaknesses, - for it is a sign of strength to be weak, to know it, and out with it - not in a set way and ostentatiously, though, but incidentally and without premeditation.

Some dying men are the most tyrannical; and certainly, since they will shortly trouble us so little for evermore, the poor fellows ought to be indulged.

There is no dignity in wickedness, whether in purple or rags; and hell is a democracy of devils, where all are equals.

Truth uncompromisingly told will always have its ragged edges.

You want to provide for your family, of course, but you also want them to come along on the journey with you. I haven't achieved all I want to with my life, so I need to continue to push myself.

Doubt yourself all you want, but you have to make choices in life and live with them.

What I learned at that moment on the subway 30 years ago, staring at my blank passport, was this: If you have an impulse to do something, and it's not totally irresponsible, why not do it? It might just be the journey you've always needed.

I think I learned about the relationship between books and life from Margaret Mitchell.