Matthew Sturgis > Quotes

“Love is always partly a misunderstanding’;”
― Matthew Sturgis, Oscar: A Biography

“When standing and talking – [he] bent the head forward condescendingly to his listener (a trick inherited from his mother), was easily audible in any drawing-room through the buzz of conversation and filled and permeated a room with his presence… Attitude when seated and talking – Leant forward from his waist towards his listener; fixed his eyes full upon him; made much play with his right arm and hand, moving the arm freely from the shoulder, and letting the large hand with its full and fleshy palm move freely on the wrist. When he made a point… would throw himself back in the chair and look at his auditor as much as to say: ‘What can you find to say to that?”
― Matthew Sturgis, Oscar: A Biography

“Even among men of science, facts were never allowed to dominate diversion. Dr William Stokes, William Wilde’s great friend and mentor (who lived in the square at No. 5), pronounced it as ‘the golden rule of conversation, to know nothing accurately’.”
― Matthew Sturgis, Oscar: A Biography

“Make some sacrifice for your art and you will be repaid – but ask of art to sacrifice herself for you and a bitter disappointment may come to you.’ oscar wilde”
― Matthew Sturgis, Oscar: A Biography