“Then your tail will divide and shrink until it becomes what the people on earth call a pair of shapely legs. But it will hurt; it will feel as if a sharp sword slashed through you. Everyone who sees you will say that you are the most graceful human being they have ever laid eyes on, for you will keep your gliding movement and no dancer will be able to tread as lightly as you. But every step you take will feel as if you were treading upon knife blades so sharp that blood must flow. I am willing to help you, but are you willing to suffer all this?""Yes," the little mermaid said in a trembling voice, as she thought of the Prince and of gaining a human soul.”
Hans Christian Andersen“Grant not my prayers, when they are contrary to Thy will, which at all times must be the best. Oh, hear them not;”
Hans Christian Andersen, The Annotated Hans Christian Andersen“Life itself is the most wonderful fairy tale.”
Hans Christian Andersen“Travelling expands the mind rarely.”
Hans Christian Andersen“Just living is not enough... one must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.”
Hans Christian Andersen“Life itself is the most wonderful fairytale.”
Hans Christian Andersen“Where words fail, music speaks.”
Hans Christian Andersen“Almighty God, thee only have I; thou steerest my fate, I must give myself up to thee! Give me a livelihood! Give me a bride! My blood wants love, as my heart does!”
Hans Christian Andersen“Life is like a beautiful melody, only the lyrics are messed up.”
Hans Christian Andersen“Enjoy life. There's plenty of time to be dead.”
Hans Christian Andersen“I got interested in reading very early, because a story was read to me, by Hans Christian Andersen, which was 'The Little Mermaid,' and I don't know if you remember 'The Little Mermaid,' but it's dreadfully sad. The little mermaid falls in love with this prince, but she cannot marry him because she is a mermaid.”
Alice Munro