Catherine the Great, like others of her kind, did not succeed in imparting greatness to her descendants.

People seem to think that life began with the achievement of personal independence.

The lovers of romance can go elsewhere for satisfaction but where can the lovers of truth turn if not to history?

To the biographer all lives bar none are dramatic constructions.

Principles are a dangerous form of social dynamite.

Persons who are born too soon or born too late seldom achieve the eminence of those who are born at the right time.

Few persons can relate the story of their childhood without idealizing, or distorting, or overdramatizing the facts.

The next time someone tries to make you feel bad about feeling good, respond by continuing to live well.

No great thing is created suddenly.

A company works best when everybody does the job he is paid to do.

Old beliefs die hard even when demonstrably false.

I begin with an idea, but as I work, the picture takes over. Then there is the struggle between the idea I preconceived... and the picture that fights for its own life.

I was at the first Minor Threat show, and you could tell, 'This band is going to be the king of the town.' It was obvious. They were so good.

I never feel like I conquered the day and did everything I possibly should have, could have, would have.

In her heart she longed for this man, dreamed of a life that could never be.

What is it between Obama and Iran? That's the question we all ought to have. Because it sure seems to me like Obama's got some sort of affection for that nation.

Different people work different ways.