Here are some inspirational words from that great father of mystery, Arthur Conan Doyle, and from his creation, S. Holmes (although the TRUE father of mystery is our namesake, Edgar Allan Poe). Sherlock tends to be more popular than Auguste Dupin, although the two share much in common. Still, here are some memorable words from the British master:
"The first thing is to get your idea. Having got that key idea one's next task is to conceal it and lay emphasis on everything which can make for a different explanation."
--Arthur Conan Doyle, Memories and Adventures (A Memoir)
And from Sherlock Holmes himself:
"To a great mind, nothing is little."
(Holmes to Watson, A Study in Scarlet)
"Eliminate all other factors, and the one which remains must be the truth."
(Holmes to Watson, The Sign of Four)
"I never guess. It is a shocking habit--destructive to the logical faculty."
(Holmes to Watson, ibid.)
"Women are never to be entirely trusted--not the best of them."
(Holmes to Watson, ibid).
"Crime is common. Logic is rare. Therefore it is on logic rather than on crime that you should dwell."
(Holmes to Watson, "The Adventure of the Copper Beeches")