the difficulty of literature
is not to write, but to write what you mean;
not to affect your reader,
but to affect him precisely as you wish. Do not write merely to be understood. Write so you cannot possibly be misunderstood. I kept always two books in my pocket, one to read, one to write in.
the man is a success
who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task;
who leaves the world better than he found it,
whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul; who never lacked appreciation of earth’s beauty or failed to express it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had.
