Esther Forbes Quotes

Books are only the shadow and life the real thing. I believe this as strongly as any belief I hold.

they reminded me of the biggest liar I ever knew personally. Was a farmer, too. Reputation of pretty good farmer at that, but he lied so he had to hire another man to call his pigs.

I also believe that writing becomes worthwhile and vitalized only through a full and exciting life.

In old age the secret springs of human nature are apt to come out.

If you can't do, you had best shut up.

Nobody can make a monkey out of anyone who isn't a monkey to start with.

How old are you Johnny" she asked. Sixteen." And what's that-a boy or a man?" He laughed. "A boy in time of peace and a man in time of war.

Most American heroes of the Revolutionary period are by now two men, the actual man and the romantic image. Some are even three men - the actual man, the image, and the debunked remains.

We give all we have, lives, property, safety, skill...we fight, we die, for a simple thing. Only that a man can stand up.