If we wish to know the force of human genius, we should read Shakespeare. If we wish to see the insignificance of human learning, we may study his commentators.

More from Table Talk: Essays On Men And Manners (1821-1822)

• Great thoughts reduced to practice become great acts.
• No man is truly great who is great only in his lifetime. The test of greatness is the page of history.
• All that is worth remembering in life, is the poetry of it.
• Books let us into their souls and lay open to us the secrets of our own.
• Do not keep on with a mockery of friendship after the substance is gone — but part, while you can part friends. Bury the carcass of friendship: it is not worth embalming.
• Grace has been defined the outward expression of the inward harmony of the soul.