The difference between the almost right word & the right word is really a large matter--it's the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning.
- Letter to George Bainton, 15 Oct 1888

AI image created by Barbara Schmidt

Yes, it was a fortunate hour that I went netting for lightning-bugs and caught a meteor.
- Marginalia to Dan Beard on original sketch from A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court

It were not best that we should all think alike; it is difference of opinion that makes horse races.
- Pudd'nhead Wilson

People are different. And it is the best way.
-Tom Sawyer, Detective