“An audience that is unwilling to suspend its own presuppositions and biases while considering an opposed (or even unopposed) viewpoint not only frustrates the function of extended argument but effectively denies its own beliefs a rational basis.”

“if the audience is receptive to changing a habit, the communication should include only favorable points, but if the audience is not inclined to accept the message, the communication should discuss both sides of the issue (pointing out its risk while acknowledging and rebutting its pleasurable effects).”

“And I believe the truth is mighty, and shines by its own light.”

“Love does not stand still, as everyone knows; it is always adding to its own shape whether by advance or retreat. Wounds can be absorbed, but only like elements embodied in a story; they are always there, part of the meaning.”

“It rested flat on a surface. A cushion or a mattress. The toes curled up. Then another foot appeared, suspended in air until a leg extended. He started backward, repelled by whatever could twist and turn so freakishly.”

“Although golf was originally restricted to wealthy, overweight Protestants, today it's open to anybody who owns hideous clothing.”

“Grief works its own perversions and betrayals; the shape of what we have lost is as subject to corruption as the mortal body...”