It is no merit in the sorrowful that they weep, or to the oppressed and smothering that they gasp and struggle, not to me, that I must speak for the oppressed - who cannot speak for themselves.

Never give up, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.

The bitterest tears shed over graves are for words left unsaid and deeds left undone.

It's a matter of taking the side of the weak against the strong, something the best people have always done.

Whipping and abuse are like laudanum: you have to double the dose as the sensibilities decline.

The truth is the kindest thing we can give folks in the end.

No ornament of a house can compare with books; they are constant company in a room, even when you are not reading them.

So much has been said and sung of beautiful young girls, why doesn't somebody wake up to the beauty of old women.

I feel now that the time is come when even a woman or a child who can speak a word for freedom and humanity is bound to speak... I hope every woman who can write will not be silent.

Talk of the abuses of slavery! Humbug! The thing itself is the essence of all abuse!

The past, the present and the future are really one: they are today.

There is nothing more fascinating than the fusion between power and mystery in our great, little treasure: the human brain.

Once you are at the point where you can call yourself a writer, there’s no turning back.

Animals are such agreeable friends they ask no questions pass no criticisms.

It's hard to practice compassion when we're struggling with our authenticity or when our own worthiness is off-balance.

I got my first real six string, bought it at the five and dime, played it 'til my fingers bled.

Experience is always a trustworthy guide; it may not tell you everything, but it never lies.

A great writer is nothing less than a martyr who does not die.

All that you do will come back to you. Good and bad.

My head spins. One moment I'm told I'm too edgy, then people say I'm too angry, then that I show too much passion... make your minds up.

The people in the Philippines are so extraordinarily nice.