Carolyn Wells Quotes

Powerful Carolyn Wells for Daily Growth

About Carolyn Wells

Carolyn Wells (August 14, 1862 – February 19, 9, 1942) was an American author, poet, and librarian, best known for her contributions to children's literature, particularly the creation of the 'Alice-Sit-by-the-Fire' series. Born in New York City, Wells spent much of her childhood in Chicago, where she developed a love for reading and writing. In 1879, at the age of 17, she published her first poem, "The White Heifer," in The Youth's Companion magazine. Wells attended Wellesley College but left without graduating to marry William Wells, a banker, in 1883. They moved frequently due to his job, providing Wells with ample opportunity for observation and inspiration. In the early 1900s, following her husband's death, Wells turned her focus towards writing full-time. She published over 70 books, including "The Princess Fairy-Tree" (1902), "The Realm of Fairy Gold" (1903), and the beloved 'Alice-Sit-by-the-Fire' series, which began with "Alice-Girl Wonder" in 1914. Wells' works are characterized by their whimsy, fantasy, and use of words that were not commonly used at the time, making her a pioneer in extending children's vocabularies. Her stories often featured strong female characters, reflecting her belief in the importance of empowering girls. In addition to her literary career, Wells served as the Librarian for the New York Public Library from 1896 to 1904 and was a founding member of The Author's League of America. She died in 1942, leaving behind a lasting legacy in children's literature. Quotes by Carolyn Wells include: "Life is too short for long words," and "It's the simple things that count." These sentiments resonate deeply with her approach to children's stories, which are filled with straightforward, engaging narratives that still manage to captivate young readers today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"True terror lies in the anticipation of misfortune."

This quote emphasizes that the fear or anxiety we experience often stems not from the actual event itself, but from the dread and apprehension leading up to it. It's the uncertainty, the 'what ifs', that can truly terrify us. Understanding this can help us find ways to manage our fears more effectively, by focusing on the present and controlling what we can, rather than dwelling on potential future negatives.


"Fear is but the little-death that gnaws at the fringes of life."

This quote by Carolyn Wells suggests that fear is a minor, persistent threat that nibbles away at the edges of one's vitality or zest for living. It implies that fear can restrict us, limit our experiences, and make us feel anxious, which, in turn, diminishes our enjoyment of life. However, acknowledging and facing fears can help individuals overcome them, thus reclaiming their full potential and experiencing life more fully.


"One may escape from the dungeon, but the memory of the dungeon is still with one."

This quote emphasizes that despite physically escaping a difficult situation or overcoming an adversity (the "dungeon"), the emotional impact or psychological scars (the "memory of the dungeon") can linger, influencing one's thoughts, feelings, and behavior indefinitely. The quote suggests a profound resilience yet acknowledges that personal experiences have lasting effects on individuals.


"The more I see of life, the more I am convinced that I was right in arranging my own program."

This quote by Carolyn Wells emphasizes self-determination and personal autonomy. As one navigates through life, experiencing its complexities and intricacies, she finds validation in her decision to chart her own path. It suggests that taking control of one's destiny and designing a personally fulfilling life is a wise choice. This sentiment resonates with the empowering belief that individuals should take charge of their lives, rather than being passive observers or victims of circumstances beyond their control.


"Words are but the shadow of our thoughts."

The quote suggests that words are mere reflections or representations of our thoughts, ideas, and emotions. They serve as a medium to convey these abstract concepts, but do not hold their inherent meaning or essence themselves. This idea underscores the importance of understanding the depth behind words in effective communication.


I am more fond of achieving than striving. My theories must prove to be facts or be discarded as worthless. My efforts must soon be crowned with success, or discontinued.

- Carolyn Wells

More, Prove, Discarded, Striving

Youth is a silly, vapid state, Old age with fears and ills is rife; This simple boon I beg of Fate - A thousand years of Middle Life.

- Carolyn Wells

Fate, Thousand Years, Rife, Boon

A guilty conscience is the mother of invention.

- Carolyn Wells

Mother, Guilty, Conscience, Invention

A cynic is a man who looks at the world with a monocle in his mind's eye.

- Carolyn Wells

Eye, Mind, Looks, Cynic

A blunder at the right moment is better than cleverness at the wrong time.

- Carolyn Wells

Better, Than, Cleverness, Blunder

Of two evils choose the prettier.

- Carolyn Wells

Choose, Two, Prettier, Evils

It is the interest one takes in books that makes a library. And if a library have interest it is; if not, it isn't.

- Carolyn Wells

Interest, Books, Makes, Library

Advice is one of those things it is far more blessed to give than to receive.

- Carolyn Wells

Advice, Give, Receive, Blessed

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