Quotes from Jane Austen

Time did not compose her.

Those who have not more must be satisfied with what they have.

Marianne was silent; it was impossible for her to say what she did not feel, however trivial the occasion…

Here and there, human nature may be great in times of trial, but generally speaking it is its weakness and not its strength that appears in a sick chamber; it is selfishness and impatience rather than generosity and fortitude, that one hears of. There is so little real friendship in the world! – and unfortunately' (speaking low and tremulously) 'there are so many who forget to think seriously till it is almost too late.

Your countenance perfectly informs me that you were in company last night with the person, whom you think the most agreeable in the world, the person who interests you at this present time, more than all the rest of the world put together.

Of this she was perfectly unaware; to her he was only the man who had made himself agreeable nowhere, and who had not thought her handsome enough to dance with.

The worst crimes; are the crimes of the heart

I think you are in very great danger of making him as much in love with you as ever.

There is a monsterous deal of stupid quizzing, & common-place nonsense talked, but scarcely any wit.

That is the case with us all, papa. One half of the world cannot understand the pleasures of the other.

How often is happiness destroyed by preparation, foolish preparation!

To sit in the shade on a fine day and look upon verdure is the most perfect refreshment.

My style of writing is very different from yours.

Life seems nothing more than a quick succession of busy nothings.

Catherine hoped at least to pass uncensured through the crowd. As for admiration, it was always very welcome when it came, but she did not depend on it.

that you seemed almost as fearful of notice and praise as other women were of neglect. (Edmund to Fanny)

I write only to bid you Farewell. The spell is removed; I see you as you are.

I do not think it worth while to wait for enjoyment until there is some real opportunity for it.

A man who has nothing to do with his own time has no conscience in his intrusion on that of others.

There is no reason in the world why you should not be important where you are known. You have good sense, and a sweet temper, and I am sure you have a grateful heart, that could never receive kindness without hoping to return it. I do not know any better qualifications for a friend and companion.

Good apple pies are a considerable part of our domestic happiness.

It was a gloomy prospect, and all that she could do was to throw a mist over it, and hope when the mist cleared away, she should see something else.

There is nothing like employment, active indispensable employment, for relieving sorrow. Employment, even melancholy, may dispel melancholy.

You mean to frighten me, Mr Darcy, by coming in all this state to hear me? But I will not be alarmed though your sister does play so well. There is a stubbornness about me that can never bear to be frightened at the will of others. My courage always rises with every attempt to intimidate me.