I was learning the importance of names -- having them, making them -- but at the same time I sensed read more

I was learning the importance of names -- having them, making them -- but at the same time I sensed the dangers. Recognition was followed by oblivion, a yawning maw whose victims disappeared without a trace.

One forgets words as one forgets names. One's vocabulary needs constant fertilizing or it will die

One forgets words as one forgets names. One's vocabulary needs constant fertilizing or it will die

A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving
favour rather than silver and gold.

A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving
favour rather than silver and gold.

I can call nothing by name if that is not his name. I call a cat
a cat, and read more

I can call nothing by name if that is not his name. I call a cat
a cat, and Rollet a rogue.
[Fr., Je ne puis rien nommer si ce n'est par son nom;
J'appelle un chat un chat, et Rollet un fripon.]

Every human being has hundreds of separate people living under his skin. The talent of a writer is his ability read more

Every human being has hundreds of separate people living under his skin. The talent of a writer is his ability to give them their separate names, identities, personalities and have them relate to other characters living with him.

Proper names are poetry in the raw. Like all poetry they are untranslatable.

Proper names are poetry in the raw. Like all poetry they are untranslatable.

The Eskimos had 52 names for snow because it was important to them; there ought to be as many for read more

The Eskimos had 52 names for snow because it was important to them; there ought to be as many for love.

I cannot say the crow is white,
But needs must call a spade a spade.

I cannot say the crow is white,
But needs must call a spade a spade.

My name may have buoyancy enough to float upon the sea of time.

My name may have buoyancy enough to float upon the sea of time.