The sparkle and morning-freshness of the shop, and the…

Contradictions in human character are one of its most consistent notes.

— Muriel Spark

“They are demanding equal rights with us,’ says Mrs. Fiedke. ‘That’s why I never vote with the Liberals. Perfume, jewellery, hair down to their…

— Muriel Spark

Allow me, in conclusion, to congratulate you warmly upon your sexual intercourse, as well as your singing.

— Muriel Spark

I see no reason to keep silent about my enjoyment of the sound of my own voice as I work.

— Muriel Spark

It is well, when in difficulties, to say never a word, neither black nor white. Speech is silver but silence is golden.

— Muriel Spark

It's a whydunnit in q-sharp major and it has a message: never talk to the sort of girls that you wouldn't leave lying about…

— Muriel Spark

One's prime is elusive. You little girls, when you grow up, must be on the alert to recognize your prime at whatever time of…

— Muriel Spark

“It's only possible to betray where loyalty is due”

— Muriel Spark

There was altogether too much candor in married life; it was an indelicate modern idea, and frequently led to upsets in a household, if…

— Muriel Spark

Jealousy ... is an affliction of the spirit which, unlike some sins of the flesh, gives no one any pleasure.

— Muriel Spark

it never really occurred to her that literary men, if they like women at all, do not want literary women but girls.

— Muriel Spark

“The word 'education' comes from the root e from ex, out, and duco, I lead. It means a leading out. To me education is…

— Muriel Spark

“- 'Poise is perfect balance, an equanimity of body and mind, complete composure whatever the social scene. Elegant dress, immaculate grooming, and perfect deportment…

— Muriel Spark

These years are still the years of my prime. It is important to recognise the years of one's prime, always remember that.

— Muriel Spark

“But now they were all fifteen, there was a lot they did not tell each other.”

— Muriel Spark