"I have frequently noticed in myself a tendency to a diffuse style; a disposition to push my metaphor..." — Sidney Lanier

If a man made himself an expert in any particular branch of human activity, there would result the strong tendency that a peculiar aptitude towards the same branch would be found among some of his descendants.

But I cannot bring myself to believe that I was intended for a musician, because it seems so small a business in comparison with other things which, it seems to me, I might do. Question here: 'What is the province of music in the economy of the world?'

If you want to be found stand where the seeker seeks.

Virtues are acquired through endeavor, which rests wholly upon yourself.