For what is history, but... huge libel on human nature, to which we industriously add page after page, volume after volume, as if we were holding up a monument to the honor, rather than the infamy of our species. — Washington Irving Copy Share Image
If I can, by a lucky chance, in these uneasy days, rub out one wrinkle from the brow of care, or beguile the heavy heart of one moment of sadness; if I can, how and then, prompt a happier view… — Washington Irving Copy Share Image
Some minds corrode and grow inactive under the loss of personal liberty; others grow morbid and irritable; but it is the nature of the… — Washington Irving Copy Share Image
Language gradually varies, and with it fade away the writings of authors who have flourished their allotted time; otherwise, the creative powers of genius… — Washington Irving Copy Share Image
A father may turn his back on his child, brothers and sisters may become inveterate enemies, husbands may desert their wives, wives their husbands.… — Washington Irving Copy Share Image
Over no nation does the press hold a more absolute control than over the people of America, for the universal education of the poorest… — Washington Irving Copy Share Image
I have never found, in anything outside of the four walls of my study, an enjoyment equal to sitting at my writing desk with… — Washington Irving Copy Share Image
There is no character in the comedy of human life more difficult to play well than that of an old bachelor. — Washington Irving Copy Share Image
He who thinks much says but little in proportion to his thoughts. He selects that language which will convey his ideas in the most… — Washington Irving Copy Share Image
A woman's whole life is a history of the affections. The heart is her world: it is there her ambition strives for empire; it… — Washington Irving Copy Share Image
Redundancy of language is never found with deep reflection. Verbiage may indicate observation, but not thinking. He who thinks much says but little in… — Washington Irving Copy Share Image
History fades into fable; fact becomes clouded with doubt and controversy; the inscription molders from the tablet: the statue falls from the pedestal. Columns,… — Washington Irving Copy Share Image
