"The ‛Imp of the Perverse’ is a radical, a primitive impulse—elementary, and altogether indissoluble."

"In criticism I will be bold, and as sternly, absolutely just with friend and foe. From this purpose nothing shall turn me."

"If you determine to abandon me — here take I my farewell — Neglected — I will be doubly ambitious, & the world shall hear of the son whom you have thought unworthy of your notice."

"I call to mind flatness and dampness; and then all is madness - the madness of a memory which busies itself among forbidden things."

"I have great faith in fools - self-confidence my friends will call it."