Esther Forbes Quotes

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

Hundreds would die, but not the thing they died for.