By labor and intent study (which I take to be my portion in this life), joined with the strong propensity of nature, I might perhaps leave something so written to after-times, as they should not willingly let it die.

A poet soaring in the high reason of his fancies, with his garland and singing robes about him.

He who would not be frustrate of his hope to write well hereafter in laudable things ought himself to be a true poem.

Where the bright seraphim in burning row Their loud uplifted angel trumpets blow.

He had talents equal to business, and aspired no higher.

I'm not an author, I'm a writer, that's all I am. Authors want their names down in history; I want to keep the smoke coming out of the chimney.

I am always interested in why young people become writers, and from talking with many I have concluded that most do not want to be writers working eight and te…