I am always at a loss to know how much to believe of my own stories.

— Washington Irving

In the present day, when popular literature is running into the low levels of life, and luxuriating on the vices and follies of mankind; and when the universal pursuit of gain is trampling down the early growth of poetic feeling, and wearing out the verdure of the soul, I question whether it would not be of service for the reader occasionally to turn to these records of prouder times and loftier modes of thinking; and to steep himself to the very lips in old Spanish romance.

— Washington Irving

I profess not to know how women's hearts are wooed and won. To me, they have always been matters of riddle and admiration.

— Washington Irving

I profess not to know how women’s hearts are wooed and won. To me, they have always been matters of riddle and admiration. Some seem to have but one vulnerable point, or door of access; while others have a thousand avenues, and may be captured in a thousand different ways. It is a great triumph of skill to gain the former, but a still greater proof of generalship to maintain possession of the latter, for man must battle for his fortress at every door and window. He who wins a thousand common hearts is therefore entitled to some renown; but he who keeps undisputed sway over the heart of a coquette is indeed a hero.

— Washington Irving

It is almost startling to hear this warning of departed time sounding among the tombs, and telling the lapse of the hour, which, like a billow, has rolled us onward towards the grave.

— Washington Irving

It is worthy to note, that the early popularity of Washington was not the result of brilliant achievement nor signal success; on the contrary, it rose among trials and reverses, and may almost be said to have been the fruit of defeat.

— Washington Irving

Kindness in women, not their beauteous looks, shall win my love.

— Washington Irving

Little minds are tamed and subdued by misfortune but great minds rise above it.

— Washington Irving

Little minds are tamed and subdued by misfortune, but great minds rise above them.

— Washington Irving

Love is never lost. If not reciprocated it will flow back and soften and purify the heart.

— Washington Irving