William Hazlitt quotes - page 14

The definition of genius is that it acts unconsciously and those who have produced immortal works, have done so without knowing how or why. The greatest power operates unseen. (William Hazlitt)
We go on a journey to be free of all impediments to leave ourselves behind much more than to get rid of others. View quote
William Hazlitt
One of the pleasantest things in the world is going a journey but I like to go by myself. View quote
William Hazlitt
Comedy naturally wears itself out --destroys the very food on which it lives and by constantly and successfully exposing the follies and weaknesses of mankind to ridicule, in the end leaves itself nothing worth laughing at. View quote
William Hazlitt
Simplicity of character is the natural result of profound thought. View quote
William Hazlitt
Familiarity confounds all traits of distinction interest and prejudice take away the power of judging. View quote
William Hazlitt
An orator can hardly get beyond commonplaces if he does he gets beyond his hearers. View quote
William Hazlitt
It is strange that people should take so much interest at one time in what they so soon forget; - the truth is, they feel no interest in it [news of the day] at any time, but it does for something to talk about. Their ideas are served up to them, like their bill of fare, for the day; and the whole creation, history, war, politics, morals, poetry, metaphysics, is to them like a file of antedated newspapers, of no use, not even for reference, except the one which lies on the table! You cannot take any of these persons at a greater disadvantage than before they are provided with their cue for the day. They ask with a face of dreary vacuity, 'Have you anything new?' - and on receiving an answer in the negative, have nothing further to say. View quote
William Hazlitt