Charles Fort Quotes

Powerful Charles Fort for Daily Growth

About Charles Fort

Charles Hoy Fort (June 6, 1874 – May 3, 1944) was an American writer and self-taught scholar known for his unorthodox theories on unexplained phenomena, collectively termed anomalistic psychology. Often referred to as the "Father of Forteanism," he remains a significant influence in the fields of paranormal, ufology, cryptozoology, and conspiracy theory. Born in Albany, New York, Fort grew up in a family with a keen interest in the natural world. His father, John William Fort, was an inventor who built one of the first telegraph systems in the city. Inspired by his father's mechanical curiosity, Fort developed a fascination with science and the unknown. After a brief stint at Columbia University, Fort left without graduating to pursue his own interests. He worked as a writer and editor for various publishers before settling down with his wife Theresa Dunlap in 1902. Their marriage produced two daughters, Helen and Josephine. Fort's first major work, "The Book of the Divers," published in 1909, was a collection of strange occurrences that didn't fit into conventional scientific explanations. This set the tone for his subsequent works: "New Lands" (1923), "Lo!" (1931), and "Wild Talents" (1932). These books compiled anecdotes, historical accounts, and scientific data to support his theories about unexplained phenomena. Despite criticism from the academic community for his unconventional ideas, Fort's work had a profound influence on future generations of paranormal investigators, including writers such as John Keel and Ivan T. Sanderson. His philosophy of embracing the unknown and challenging established scientific norms continues to resonate with those seeking answers beyond the conventional explanations.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Science is a dictionary of words used to stand for things we know nothing about."

This quote by Charles Fort implies that while science provides us with terminologies and concepts to describe phenomena, it doesn't necessarily give us comprehensive understanding or knowledge about the underlying mysteries. In essence, he suggests that our scientific vocabulary falls short in explaining the unexplained aspects of the universe.


"The fact that there is a roof above our heads, and food in our mouths, does not prove that the angels are good."

This quote suggests that just because we have basic necessities like shelter and food, it doesn't necessarily mean that higher powers or entities (like angels) are benevolent. It implies that luck, circumstance, or natural occurrences could provide for our needs, not always the actions of a good or malicious entity. In essence, the quote highlights the separation between causality and morality.


"If I am unable to see the reality in a dream, then why should I accept it as reality when I awaken?"

This quote by Charles Fort suggests that if we are skeptical about the veracity of our dreams while we're asleep, we should similarly question the perceived truths of our waking life. It underscores the need for critical thinking and a healthy dose of skepticism when it comes to understanding and accepting the world around us. The dream state serves as an analogy for questioning the reality of common knowledge or widely accepted facts, encouraging us to investigate further before accepting something as true.


"I am not an atheist and I do not think that atheism sufficiently represents reality."

Charles Fort's quote suggests that he doesn't identify as an atheist, indicating a lack of belief in God or gods, but also implies that atheism, the rejection of the belief in the existence of deities, may not fully encompass reality. This could mean that he may believe in phenomena beyond our current understanding, which some might interpret as a metaphysical or paranormal realm, or it could signify his recognition of the complexity and mystery of the universe, which traditional atheism doesn't fully address.


"There are more things in heaven and earth than are dreamt of in your philosophy." (This quote is often attributed to Shakespeare, but it was actually first used by Fort in his book "The Book of the Damned")

This quote by Charles Fort emphasizes the limitations of human understanding and knowledge, suggesting that there exist phenomena in the universe that lie beyond our current philosophical or scientific comprehension. It serves as a reminder to remain open-minded, to question, explore, and challenge established beliefs, as there is always more to discover about the mysteries of the cosmos.


The theologians have recognized that the ideal is the imitation of God. If we be a part of such an organic thing, this thing is God to us, as I am God to the cells that compose me.

- Charles Fort

Part, Ideal, Theologians, Imitation

All biologic phenomena act to adjust: there are no biologic actions other than adjustments. Adjustment is another name for Equilibrium. Equilibrium is the Universal, or that which has nothing external to derange it.

- Charles Fort

Other, Another, Which, External

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