It is singular how soon we lose the impression of what ceases to be constantly before us. A year impairs, read more

It is singular how soon we lose the impression of what ceases to be constantly before us. A year impairs, a luster obliterates. There is little distinct left without an effort of memory, then indeed the lights are rekindled for a moment -- but who can be sure that the Imagination is not the torch-bearer?

The difference between false memories and true ones is the same as for jewels: it is always the false ones read more

The difference between false memories and true ones is the same as for jewels: it is always the false ones that look the most real, the most brilliant.

To be remembered after we are dead, is but poor recompense for being treated with contempt while we are living.

To be remembered after we are dead, is but poor recompense for being treated with contempt while we are living.

The memory represents to us not what we choose but what it pleases.

The memory represents to us not what we choose but what it pleases.

A retentive memory may be a good thing, but the ability to forget is the true token of greatness.

A retentive memory may be a good thing, but the ability to forget is the true token of greatness.

Out of sighte, out of mynde.

Out of sighte, out of mynde.

Far from our eyes th' Enchanting Objects set,
Advantage by the friendly Distance get.

Far from our eyes th' Enchanting Objects set,
Advantage by the friendly Distance get.

Why is it that our memory is good enough to retain the least triviality that happens to us, and yet read more

Why is it that our memory is good enough to retain the least triviality that happens to us, and yet not good enough to recollect how often we have told it to the same person?

Every man's memory is his private literature.

Every man's memory is his private literature.