ByQuotes

Budd Schulberg Quotes

Powerful Budd Schulberg for Daily Growth

About Budd Schulberg

Budd Schulberg (1914-2009) was an esteemed American novelist, screenwriter, and producer, best known for his critically acclaimed works that reflected the social realities of his time. Born on September 28, 1914, in Manhattan, New York City, Schulberg was the son of B.P. Schulberg, a prominent film producer, and Fannie Mahlstein, a vaudeville singer. Growing up in Hollywood, he was immersed in the world of cinema, which later served as an influential backdrop for his literary career. Schulberg attended Yale University but dropped out after two years to serve in World War II. His experiences during the war would later inspire his 1954 novel "The Disenchanted," a seminal work that explored the disillusionment of veterans returning to civilian life. After the war, Schulberg returned to New York and began writing for Hollywood studios, most notably MGM. In 1941, he penned the screenplay for "What Price Glory?" but achieved international recognition with "On the Waterfront" (1954), a film that earned eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Story and Screenplay for Schulberg himself. The film, starring Marlon Brando as Terry Malloy, was a searing expose of corruption in the waterfront union, inspired by real-life events involving Schulberg's brother, boxer and longshoreman George Schulberg. Schulberg's other significant works include "The Harder They Fall" (1956), based on his novel about the exploitation of prizefighters, and "A Face in the Crowd" (1957), a screenplay exploring the rise of media personality Arthur Siegel, a precursor to modern-day television personalities. Throughout his career, Schulberg was celebrated for his keen social insight, incisive wit, and unflinching portrayal of the American dream's darker side. He passed away on August 5, 2009, leaving behind a lasting legacy in literature and cinema.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"There is no greater sin than being bored with life."

This quote emphasizes the importance of living an engaged, meaningful life rather than one marked by apathy or monotony. Being bored with life suggests a lack of passion, purpose, or curiosity, which can lead to stagnation and unhappiness. Instead, engaging with life, learning, growing, and finding joy in experiences are key aspects of a fulfilling existence.

"The greatest tragedy of life is not unlove, but the absence of love."

This quote emphasizes that the most regrettable circumstance in life isn't being without affection, but rather living without experiencing or giving love. It suggests that the lack of love, whether self-imposed or inflicted by others, can create a profound sense of dissatisfaction and missed opportunities for growth, connection, and fulfillment in one's life.

"Ambition is a poor excuse for wickedness and stupidity." - On the Waterfront

This quote suggests that excessive ambition can lead individuals to act unethically or irrationally in pursuit of their goals. In the movie "On the Waterfront," which the quote originates from, the character Eddie believes that he must betray others to achieve his desired position, but ultimately learns the value of integrity and compassion over selfish ambition. The message is clear: ambition should not justify immoral or foolish actions, and one's character should always be guided by morality and wisdom.

"Time takes its toll on all things, but on some it leaves a mark."

This quote by Budd Schulberg implies that the passage of time affects everything universally, leaving an impact or imprint on various aspects of life. While time naturally degrades or deteriorates things, it can also leave behind a distinctive mark or characteristic that signifies growth, change, or a unique story. Essentially, it underscores the idea that experiences, both positive and negative, shape our identity and give meaning to our lives.

"Success at any price can be the ultimate failure."

The quote emphasizes that achieving success solely through questionable or unethical means can result in a hollow victory, ultimately leading to personal failure in terms of one's character, relationships, or long-term satisfaction. True success is often associated with integrity, respect, and the well-being of others, which might not always lead to immediate triumph but fosters genuine fulfillment in the long run.

Silence is the sure sign that you're on your way out in Hollywood.

- Budd Schulberg

Hollywood, Sign, Sure, Sure Sign

Very few fighters get the consideration of racehorses, which are put out to pasture to grow old with dignity and comfort when they haven't got it anymore.

- Budd Schulberg

Grow, Very, Which, Fighters

Living with a conscience is like driving with the brakes on.

- Budd Schulberg

Driving, Living, Conscience, Brakes

Hey, you want to hear my philosophy of life? Do it to him before he does it to you.

- Budd Schulberg

Want, Before, Does, Hey

I could have had class. I could have been a contender.

- Budd Schulberg

Been, Could, Had, Contender

You either go along with the system - conform to what is expected to be a hit - or you have very tough going.

- Budd Schulberg

Hit, Very, Either, Conform

Fights can be dumped in a dozen ways. Sometimes everybody but the fighter knows. Sometimes only the fighter knows.

- Budd Schulberg

Everybody, Ways, Fights, Dozen

As much as I love boxing, I hate it. And as much as I hate it, I love it.

- Budd Schulberg

Love, Hate, I Love, Boxing

Conscience. That stuff can drive you nuts.

- Budd Schulberg

Drive, Nuts, Conscience, Stuff

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.