“[S]elf-assurance, motivation, and a good method play a much more important role in language learning than the vague concept of innate ability, and that dealing with languages is not only an effective and joyful means of developing human relationships, but also of preserving one's mental capacity and spiritual balance.”

“One should connect language learning with either work or leisure. And not at the expense of them but to supplement them.”

“The beauty of a language is, generally judged by its soft or rigid, melodious or harsh, ring. Other aspects, such as the flexibility of derivation, play hardly any role in grading. Were it the case, Russian would certainly be placed on the winner’s stand. It would rank first in plasticity.”

“The spread of languages shouldn't imply the decay of national languages. There are so many literary and historical memories, so many joys and sorrows of the past linked to them that it is an obligation for all of us to guard their present and future.”

“[R]epetition is as an essential element of language learning as a knife is to a lathe or fuel is to an internal combustion engine.”

“Language is the only thing worth knowing even poorly.”

“[T]he time spent on language learning is lost unless it reaches a certain—daily and weekly—concentration.”