Thornton Wilder, one of the greatest American playwrights and novelists of the 20th century, has left a profound impact on literature. His works, such as “Our Town” and “The Bridge of San Luis Rey,” have captured the hearts of readers and audiences around the world. But Wilder’s genius extends beyond his storytelling abilities; his words are a source of inspiration and wisdom, offering a glimpse into the human condition.
Wilder’s quotes are filled with profound insights into life, love, and the complexities of the human experience. His words remind us of the enduring power of human connection and the beauty that exists in the simplest of moments. They encourage us to appreciate the present and cherish the relationships we have. Wilder’s quotes are timeless reminders of the importance of living fully and embracing the wonders of the world around us.
In this article, we have curated a collection of Thornton Wilder quotes that will inspire, uplift, and make you ponder. Whether you’re a literature enthusiast or simply looking for some motivation, you’ll find solace in Wilder’s words. So, sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the wisdom of this literary genius.
Famous Quotes by Thornton Wilder
1. “Every good and excellent thing stands moment by moment on the razor edge of danger and must be fought for.”
This quote reminds us that greatness and success are not easily attained. They require perseverance and continuous effort.
2. “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.”
Wilder reminds us to cherish the precious moments in life and to be grateful for the blessings we have.
3. “My advice to you is not to inquire why or whither, but just enjoy your ice cream while it’s on your plate.”
This quote encourages us to live in the present and appreciate the simple pleasures of life.
4. “I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.”
In this quote, Wilder expresses his deep appreciation for the power of theater to connect and empathize with others.
5. “The highest tribute to the dead is not grief but gratitude.”
Wilder emphasizes the importance of honoring the memory of the deceased through acts of gratitude and appreciation.
6. “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.”
Wilder reminds us to cherish the precious moments in life and to be grateful for the blessings we have.
Reflecting on Life
Thornton Wilder’s writings often delve into the deep complexities of life and the human experience. Through his words, he encourages us to reflect on the meaning of our existence and the beauty that can be found in everyday moments. Here are some thought-provoking quotes from Wilder that invite us to ponder the profound aspects of life:
- “My advice to you is not to inquire why or whither, but just enjoy your ice cream while it’s on your plate.” – Thornton Wilder
- “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” – Thornton Wilder
- “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” – Thornton Wilder
- “The highest tribute to the dead is not grief but gratitude.” – Thornton Wilder
- “The value of having a home–a place in which one belongs–is something you don’t realize until you lose it.” – Thornton Wilder
Wilder’s words remind us to savor the simple joys, appreciate the people and things that bring us happiness, and to cherish the memories we create. Life is a fleeting journey, and it is in our hands to make the most of it. Let us take the time to reflect on the beauty of life and find gratitude in every moment.
Inspiration from Literature
Literature has the power to inspire, to uplift, and to transport us to different worlds. It has the ability to touch our souls and provoke deep emotions within us. Through the written word, authors are able to convey their thoughts, experiences, and perspectives, allowing us to relate to their stories and characters.
Thornton Wilder, a literary genius, has left behind a legacy of inspiring words that continue to resonate with readers. His quotes remind us of the beauty of life, the importance of human connections, and the power of imagination.
One of Wilder’s famous quotes is: “The greatest masterpiece of literature is to inspire oneself”. These words serve as a reminder that inspiration can come from within, that we have the power to create our own motivation and drive.
Wilder also once said: “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures”. This quote reminds us to cherish the moments that bring us joy and to appreciate the blessings in our lives.
Another inspiring quote from Wilder is: “There is a land of the living and a land of the dead and the bridge is love, the only survival, the only meaning”. This quote highlights the importance of love and connection in our lives. It reminds us that love is what gives life purpose and meaning.
Through his eloquent words, Wilder encourages us to live life to the fullest, to find inspiration in the ordinary, and to appreciate the beauty in the world around us. His quotes continue to inspire and remind us of the power of literature to touch our hearts and move our souls.
Appreciating the Mundane
In our fast-paced world, it can be easy to overlook the beauty and significance in the everyday. Thornton Wilder had a profound appreciation for the mundane, and his works remind us to slow down and find joy in the simple moments of life.
Wilder understood that even the seemingly ordinary holds great meaning. He once wrote, “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” This quote reminds us to take notice of the small moments that make up our lives – a smile from a loved one, the warmth of the sun on our skin, the taste of our favorite meal.
By appreciating the mundane, we can find contentment and gratitude in even the most ordinary of circumstances. Wilder recognized this, stating, “The greatest act of faith is to sit down and eat together.” In this simple act, we can find connection, nourishment, and a reminder of our shared humanity.
Wilder’s ability to find beauty in the mundane is evident in his play, “Our Town.” Set in the fictional town of Grover’s Corners, Wilder brings a heightened awareness to the seemingly mundane activities of everyday life – from waking up in the morning to sharing a meal with family. Through this lens, he invites us to see the magic in the everyday.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us remember to appreciate the mundane. Let us take the time to savor the small moments that make up our days and find joy in the simplicity of life. In the words of Thornton Wilder, “The everyday is no more important than a tree, a river, a cloud, a stone.” May we find wonder and beauty in the ordinary and embrace the magic of the mundane.
Embracing Change and Growth
Thornton Wilder, known for his insightful writing, often encouraged his readers to embrace change and growth. He believed that life was a constant journey of self-discovery and transformation, and that we should not fear the unknown.
In one of his famous quotes, Wilder writes, “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” This quote reminds us that life is not about clinging to what is comfortable, but about actively seeking new experiences and constantly growing as individuals.
Wilder also believed that change was necessary for personal growth. He wrote, “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” This quote emphasizes the importance of cherishing the present moment and being open to the opportunities that come our way.
In another quote, Wilder states, “The future is the home of our deepest fears and wildest hopes.” This quote challenges us to embrace the uncertainty of the future and to view it as a source of excitement and possibility. It encourages us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace the unknown.
Overall, Thornton Wilder’s quotes remind us to embrace change and growth in our lives. They encourage us to step out of our comfort zones, cherish the present moment, and embrace the unknown future. By embracing change and growth, we can lead more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Finding Beauty in Simplicity
Thornton Wilder, a literary genius whose works continue to resonate with readers today, understood the power of simplicity. In a world that often values complexity and grandeur, Wilder’s writings remind us to find beauty in the simplicity of life.
Wilder believed that the most profound truths can often be found in the ordinary. His characters and stories capture the essence of everyday life, celebrating the small moments and the seemingly insignificant details that make life meaningful. In a world filled with distractions and noise, Wilder teaches us to pause and appreciate the quiet beauty that surrounds us.
Through his words, Wilder encourages us to see the extraordinary in the ordinary. He reminds us that life’s greatest joys can be found in the simplest of pleasures, whether it’s the warmth of a loved one’s smile or the sound of laughter filling the air. In a society that often values material possessions and achievements, Wilder’s writings remind us that true happiness lies in the intangible moments that money can’t buy.
Wilder’s embrace of simplicity extends beyond his writing. He was known for his minimalist lifestyle, preferring a modest and uncluttered existence. His appreciation for simplicity is evident in his words, as he captures the essence of life’s most profound experiences with just a few carefully chosen words.
So let us take a page from Thornton Wilder’s book and embrace the beauty of simplicity. Let us find joy in the ordinary and savor the moments that make life meaningful. In a world that often seeks complexity, let us remember that sometimes, the most powerful lessons are found in the simplest of truths.
Relationships and Human Connection
Thornton Wilder’s works explore the intricacies of relationships and the power of human connection. He recognizes the significance of our interactions with one another, which shape our identity and impact our lives. Through his writing, Wilder emphasizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding in fostering deep connections with others.
One of Wilder’s most famous plays, “Our Town,” delves into the ordinary lives of individuals in a small town and highlights the extraordinary beauty found in everyday human interactions. In this play, he expresses how the smallest gestures of love and kindness can have a profound impact, reminding us to cherish our relationships and appreciate the fleeting moments that make up a lifetime.
Wilder’s quote, “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures,” encapsulates his belief that our connections with others are what give life meaning. He emphasizes that it is in our shared experiences, joys, and sorrows that we truly come alive and find purpose.
Furthermore, Wilder’s characters often grapple with the complexities of relationships, whether it be the bonds between family members or the romantic entanglements of lovers. He explores the challenges and rewards of love, highlighting the sacrifices and compromises necessary for its success. Through his nuanced characters, Wilder reminds us that relationships require effort, understanding, and forgiveness to thrive.
Wilder’s works illustrate that human connection transcends time and place. He reminds us that no matter our differences, we are all part of a larger human family. In “The Skin of Our Teeth,” Wilder presents the Antrobus family as a symbol of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. Their ability to come together and support one another through countless challenges demonstrates the strength of human connection and the power of unity.
In conclusion, Thornton Wilder’s works shine a light on the importance of relationships and human connection. Through his insightful writing, he reminds us of the profound impact we have on each other’s lives and how these connections shape our existence. Wilder’s works serve as a poignant reminder to cherish and nourish our relationships, as they are the true treasures of our lives.
Living in the Present Moment
Thornton Wilder, a renowned American playwright and novelist, had a deep understanding of the human experience and the importance of living in the present moment. His words of wisdom remind us to appreciate the beauty of each passing moment and to seize the opportunities that life presents us.
In his play “Our Town”, Wilder wrote, “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” This powerful quote reminds us to cherish the simple yet precious moments in life, whether it’s spending time with loved ones, enjoying the beauty of nature, or pursuing our passions.
Wilder also acknowledged the fleeting nature of time in his play “The Skin of Our Teeth” and said, “The future is always beginning now.” This statement serves as a reminder that the present moment is all we have and that the choices we make in the here and now shape our future.
Another poignant quote by Wilder is, “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” This reminds us to pause and appreciate the simple joys and blessings that surround us in each moment. It encourages us to be fully present and engaged in the present, rather than getting lost in worries about the future or dwelling on the past.
Living in the present moment is not always easy, especially in today’s fast-paced world. However, Wilder’s words serve as a gentle reminder to slow down, be mindful, and savor the beauty of each passing moment. As we strive to live in the present, we can find true joy and fulfillment.
| Popular Quotes by Thornton Wilder |
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| “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” |
| “The future is always beginning now.” |
| “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” |
The Power of Imagination
Thornton Wilder, the renowned American playwright and novelist, understood the immense power of imagination. He believed that it was through the creative realms of the mind that true magic happened. In his works, Wilder emphasized the importance of tapping into the boundless potential of our imagination.
Imagination, according to Wilder, has the ability to transport us to different worlds and expand our horizons. It allows us to break free from the limitations of the present and envision new possibilities. Through imagination, we can explore uncharted territories and discover hidden truths.
“We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” This quote by Wilder highlights the profound connection between imagination and our innermost desires. Our imagination enables us to recognize and appreciate the precious moments and experiences that make life truly worthwhile.
Moreover, imagination has the power to inspire action and change. It ignites our passion and fuels our dreams, motivating us to strive for greatness. Wilder believed that imagination could serve as a catalyst for transforming our world and making it a better place.
“The future is always beginning now.” These words by Wilder remind us that imagination is not confined to the past or the present. It is a force that propels us forward and opens up new possibilities for the future. Through our imagination, we have the power to shape our destiny.
In conclusion, Thornton Wilder recognized and celebrated the incredible power of imagination. Through his profound insights and memorable quotes, he encourages us to embrace our creative faculties and unleash the magic within. Let us harness the power of our imagination to envision a brighter future and create a world filled with wonder and beauty.