"I should infinitely prefer a book."

"For my whole life, my favorite activity was reading. It's not the most social pastime."

"I have learnt how to live, how to be in the world and of the world, and not just to stand aside and watch."

"Take care of the small circle around you. When you have succeeded with them, then move outwards, one small step at a time."

"Work as hard as you can, whatever you do, and try to spread generosity of spirit."

"I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells. Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living."