In the tragedy in question, for example, he condemned the ideas but admired the style, abhorred the conception but praised all the details, found the characters impossible but their speeches marvelous

Noble characters and pure affections and happy scenes are very comforting things. They're a refuge from life's disillusionments.

Had they nothing more to say to each other? Their eyes, certainly, were full of more meaningful talk; and as they made themselves utter banalities they sensed …

'What's more delightful than an evening beside the fire with a nice bright lamp and a book, listening to the wind beating against the windows?' 'How true!' she…

The European boys have small ideas but they sure know how to dress 'em up.

The hallmark of the minor artist is to be obsessed with style as an end in itself.

People call me an over-actor, people who say this might call Van Gogh an over- painter.