The question up for debate between Socrates and Phaedrus is whether the written word kills memory or aids it--whether it cripples the mind's power, or whether it cures it of its forgetfulness.

After my friend's accident I take care of her. It is always taking care, but it is difficult, because at times to take care of her is also to cause her pain.

102. After my friend's accident I take care of her. It is always taking care, but it is difficult, because at times to take care of her is also to cause her pain.

Mostly I have felt myself becoming a servant of sadness. I am still looking for the beauty in that.

It will not say, 'Isn't X beautiful?' Such demands are murderous to beauty.

It is always taking care, but it is difficult, because at times to take care of her is also to cause her pain.

This is generous, for to be close to her pain has always felt like a privilege to me, even though pain could be defined as that which we typically aim to avoid.

I am trying to talk about what blue means, or what it means to me, apart from meaning.

Do not, however, make the mistake of thinking that all desire is yearning.

We don't get to choose what or whom we love, I want to say. We just don't get to choose.

To take a breath of water: does the thought panic or excite you?

Some of the most heart-breaking letters I receive are from people who tell how alcohol or drugs have ravaged their lives and destroyed their families.

Your ability to form a strong intention, to concentrate, and to get and stay focused while feeling detached from concerns of daily life—relaxed, open-minded, and emotionally energized—are essential.

In times of defeat, we never know how close we are to victory. In every event of failure, God has planted a seed of success.

I have to be conscious of what I'm sayin' because people are gonna come at me about this sh*t.

I don't want to develop a personality, just cut my face! Stretch it and staple it. Now I'm happy, or at least I look like it.

A picture that is beautiful, or that comes off, or that works, looks as if it was all made at one stroke.

Be sure that you make a difference in the world.

Laurie, you're an angel! How shall I ever thank you?" "Fly at me again. I rather liked it," said Laurie, looking mischievous, a thing he had not done for a fortnight.

You know what's crazy about Yao? He speaks perfect English. A lot of people don't know that. Perfect English. When I was over there, I called him. He's like, 'Whassup big fella?' Perfect English!

A critic should always strive to recapture the sense of wonder and surprise with which he first beheld a now-familiar work of art.