“I cordially dislike allegory in all its manifestations...”

“I cordially dislike allegory in all its manifestations, and always have done so since I grew old and wary enough to detect its presence. I much prefer history – true or feigned– with its varied applicability to the thought and experience of readers. I think that many confuse applicability with allegory, but the one resides in the freedom of the reader, and the other in the purposed domination of the author.”

“It's like Tolstoy said. Happiness is an allegory, unhappiness a story.”

“The music that can deepest reach and cure all ill is cordial speech.”

“The excellence of water appears in its benefiting all things, and in its occupying, without striving (to the contrary), the low place which all men dislike.”

“Please, Kate. Suspend your dislike of me for a few moments and listen to what I have to say. It makes sense.""I don't dislike you. It's an oversimplification.”