Writing is not a profession but a vocation of unhappiness.

Writing is not a profession but a vocation of unhappiness.

Vocations which we wanted to pursue, but didn't, bleed, like colors, on the whole of our existence.

Vocations which we wanted to pursue, but didn't, bleed, like colors, on the whole of our existence.

The luck of having talent is not enough; one must also have a talent for luck.

The luck of having talent is not enough; one must also have a talent for luck.

I have no particular talent. I am merely inquisitive.

I have no particular talent. I am merely inquisitive.

Mediocrity knows nothing higher than itself; but talent instantly recognises genius.

Mediocrity knows nothing higher than itself; but talent instantly recognises genius.

A talent somewhat above mediocrity, shrewd and not too sensitive, is more likely to rise in the world than genius.

A talent somewhat above mediocrity, shrewd and not too sensitive, is more likely to rise in the world than genius.

A man possesses talent; genius possesses the man.

A man possesses talent; genius possesses the man.

There is no substitute for talent. Industry and all its virtues are of no avail.

There is no substitute for talent. Industry and all its virtues are of no avail.

I do not want to die ... until I have faithfully made the most of my talent and cultivated the read more

I do not want to die ... until I have faithfully made the most of my talent and cultivated the seed that was placed in me until the last small twig has grown.