Cloud Atlas

by David Mitchell

One must be cynical as Diogenes to prosper in my profession, but cynicism can blind one to subtler virtues.

What moral to draw? Peace, though beloved of our Lord, is a cardinal virtue only if your neighbors share your conscience.

As many truths as men. Occasionally, I glimpse a truer Truth, hiding in imperfect simulacrums of itself, but as I approach, it bestirs itself & moves deeper into the thorny swamp of dissent.

“Pain is strong, aye—but friends’ eyes, more strong.”

“Sail forth, steer for the deep waters only, Reckless, O Soul, exploring, I with thee, and thou with me.”

‘If people praise you, you’re not walking your own path.’