"I hate things all fiction… there should always be some foundation of fact for the most airy fabric and pure invention is but the talent of a liar."

"Wordsworth – stupendous genius! Damned fool! These poets run about their ponds though they cannot fish."

"I have a great contempt for public opinion, and I always have."

"The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do."

"I am a very restless creature, and I cannot stay long in one place."