“I must say... that I ruined myself: and that nobody, great or small, can be ruined except by his own hand.”

“I suppose because we have no ruins and no curiosities,” said Virginia satirically.”

“A kiss may ruin a human life”

“My great mistake, the fault for which I can’t forgive myself, is that one day I ceased my obstinate pursuit of my own individuality. ”

“Good heavens! how marriage ruins a man! It's as demoralizing as cigarettes, and far more expensive.”

“But whether I become a believer or remain an agnostic, my belief or disbelief must derive its source from within, not from without. I, myself, must create its symbols. The transcendental is that which produces its own form. I will never discover its secret if I do not find it in my own heart; if I do not possess it already I shall never be able to acquire it.”

“In fact, now you mention the subject, I have been very bad in my own small way.I don't think you should be so proud of that, though I am sure it must have been very pleasant.”