Washington Irving

For my part, I love to give myself up to the illusion of poetry. A hero of fiction that never existed is just as valuable to me as a hero of history that existed a thousand years ago.

Washington Irving

From its peaceful bosom spring none but fond regrets and tender recollections.

Washington Irving

He is indeed the true enchanter, whose spell operates, not upon the senses, but upon the imagination and the heart.

Washington Irving

He who thinks much says but little in proportion to his thoughts. He selects that language which will convey his ideas in the most explicit and direct manner.

Washington Irving

Honest good humor is the oil and wine of a merry meeting, and there is no jovial companionship equal to that where the jokes are rather small and laughter abundant.

Washington Irving

How easy is it for one benevolent being to diffuse pleasure around him, and how truly is a kind heart a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity to freshen into smiles.

Washington Irving

I am always at a loss at how much to believe of my own stories.

Washington Irving

I have never found, in anything outside of the four walls of my study, an enjoyment equal to sitting at my writing desk with a clean page, a new theme, and a mind awake.

Washington Irving

I profess not to know how women’s hearts are wooed and won. To me they have always been matters of riddle and admiration.

Washington Irving

I sometimes think one of the great blessings we shall enjoy in heaven, will be to receive letters by every post and never be obliged to reply to them.

Washington Irving