More quotes by George R.R. Martin, A Game of Thrones

"I have a realistic grasp of my own strengths and weaknesses. My mind is my weapon. My brother has his sword, King Robert has his warhammer, and I have my mind… and a mind needs books as a sword needs a whetstone, if it is to keep its edge. That’s why I read so much, Jon Snow."
"The things we love destroy us every time, lad. Remember that."
"... a mind needs books as a sword needs a whetstone, if it is to keep its edge."
"Laughter is poison to fear."
"Most men would rather deny a hard truth than face it."