for there is no folly of the beast of the earth which is not infinitely outdone by the madness of men
HERMAN MELVILLEfor there is no folly of the beast of the earth which is not infinitely outdone by the madness of men
HERMAN MELVILLEA man of true science… thinks, that by mouthing hard words, he proves that he understands hard things.
HERMAN MELVILLEThinking is, or ought to be, a coolness and a calmness; and our poor hearts throb, and our poor brains beat too much for that.
HERMAN MELVILLETruth is in things, and not in words.
HERMAN MELVILLEI know not all that may be coming, but be it what it will, I’ll go to it laughing.
HERMAN MELVILLELadies are like creeds; if you cannot speak well of them, say nothing.
HERMAN MELVILLEFor as this appalling ocean surrounds the verdant land, so in the soul of man there lies one insular Tahiti, full of peace and joy, but encompassed by all the horrors of the half known life.
HERMAN MELVILLEThere is no quality in this world that is not what it is merely by contrast. Nothing exists in itself.
HERMAN MELVILLETo produce a mighty book, you must choose a mighty theme.
HERMAN MELVILLEYet habit – strange thing! what cannot habit accomplish?
HERMAN MELVILLEThe worst of our evils we blindly inflict upon ourselves; our officers cannot remove them, even if they would.
HERMAN MELVILLEI am, as I am; whether hideous, or handsome, depends upon who is made judge.
HERMAN MELVILLEFailure is the true test of greatness
HERMAN MELVILLETis no dishonor when he who would dishonor you, only dishonors himself.
HERMAN MELVILLEHe who has never failed somewhere, that man can not be great.
HERMAN MELVILLEBeneath those stars is a universe of gliding monsters.
HERMAN MELVILLE