The idea of death was utterly incongruous—as it is to all men until the final second. — Arthur C. Clarke

“Censorship does raise some very difficult problems, doesn’t it? I’ve always argued that there’s an inverse correlation between a country’s degree of civilisation and the restraints it puts on its press.”

A New English voice from the back of the room cut in: “On that argument, Paris is a more civilised place than Boston.”

“Precisely,” answered Purvis. For once, he waited for a reply.

“OK,” said the New England voice mildly. “I’m not arguing. I just wanted to check.”

You won’t be an artist if you live a thousand years. You’re merely an expert, and you know it. Those who can—do, those who can’t—criticise.

Great art and domestic bliss are mutually incompatible. Sooner or later, you'll have to make your choice.