74 Quotes by Jessamyn West

Only a fool would refuse to enter a fool's paradise when that's the only paradise he'll ever have a chance to enter.

Writing is a solitary occupation. Family, friends, and society are the natural enemies of the writer. He must be alone, uninterrupted, and slightly savage if he is to sustain and complete an undertaking.

There are two barriers that often prevent communication between the young and their elders. The first is middle-aged forgetfulness of the fact that they themselves are no longer young. The second is youthful ignorance of the fact that the middle aged are still alive.

We want the facts to fit the preconceptions. When they don't it is easier to ignore the facts than to change the preconceptions.

We can love an honest rogue, but what is more offensive than a false saint?

The source of one's joy is also often the source of one's sorrow.

I've done more harm by the falseness of trying to please than by the honesty of trying to hurt.

Talent is helpful in writing, but guts are absolutely necessary.

A rattlesnake that doesn't bite teaches you nothing.