Dale Robertson Quotes

Powerful Dale Robertson for Daily Growth

About Dale Robertson

Dale Robertson (December 14, 1923 – June 27, 2013) was an American novelist and short story writer, best known for his Western fiction. Born in Alvarado, Texas, he grew up surrounded by the landscapes and stories that would later inspire his work. Robertson's love for the West began at a young age. He worked as a cowboy and ranch hand before serving in World War II as a U.S. Marine. His military experiences influenced his writing, imbuing his characters with a gritty realism. After the war, he attended Texas A&M University, where he studied journalism. In 1950, Robertson moved to California and began writing Western stories for magazines like Argosy, Frontier, and Wild West. His first novel, "TEXAS JAMBOREE," was published in 1952. This book, along with its sequel "The Maverick Queen," introduced readers to the unforgettable characters Joe Riles and Sally Starr. Robertson's breakthrough came in 1960 with the publication of his novel "Houston, We've Got Trouble." This book was the first in a series featuring Texas Ranger Hap Goodnight, who would become one of Robertson's most enduring characters. The series included ten novels and two short story collections. Throughout his career, Robertson received numerous awards for his writing, including three Spur Awards from Western Writers of America. He was also a member of the Texas Institute of Letters and the Westerners, an organization dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the American West. Dale Robertson passed away in 2013, leaving behind a rich legacy of stories that continue to captivate readers with their vivid portrayals of the American West. His work remains a significant contribution to Western literature.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"A man doesn't really know what a woman is thinking until he has children with her."

This quote suggests that a man can only truly understand a woman's thoughts and feelings when they share a deep, lasting bond - in this case, through the shared experience of parenthood. It implies that the responsibilities, emotions, and insights that come with raising children may reveal aspects of a woman's character, thoughts, and intentions that might be less apparent in other relationships or contexts. However, it is important to note that not every man or woman shares this experience, and understanding each other can also come from mutual growth, communication, empathy, and shared experiences beyond parenthood.


"There's no such thing as a free lunch."

The quote by Dale Robertson, "There's no such thing as a free lunch," is an adage that highlights the idea that everything has a cost, even if it may not appear immediately obvious. It suggests that every benefit, favor, or opportunity we receive comes at some kind of price, whether monetary, emotional, or in the form of sacrifices or compromises. The principle can be applied to various aspects of life, reminding us that there's always an exchange involved when we seek something valuable.


"The road to success is always under construction."

This quote by Dale Robertson implies that achieving success is not a linear or static journey, but rather an ongoing process that requires continuous effort, adaptability, and perseverance. The "construction" of the road to success signifies the constant evolution, improvement, and adjustments necessary to reach one's goals. In essence, it serves as a reminder that the path to achieving our dreams is always in progress, and we must be prepared to navigate through its changes and challenges with determination and resilience.


"Luck is the knack of being at the right place at the right time doing the right thing."

This quote by Dale Robertson highlights the intersection between skill, opportunity, and timing as crucial factors in achieving success or "luck". It suggests that being in the right place (having access to opportunities) at the right time (seizing the moment) while doing the right thing (having the necessary skills and knowledge) increases one's chances of experiencing good fortune or success. Essentially, Robertson implies that luck is not solely random but can be influenced by our actions and positioning in life.


"If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything." (This quote is more commonly attributed to Alexander Hamilton, but Dale Robertson also used it in his acting career.)

This quote emphasizes the importance of having strong personal values or beliefs. It suggests that if one does not have a clear sense of what they stand for, they may easily be swayed or influenced by anything, potentially leading to confusion, indecision, or even harmful actions. Having a strong foundation of principles allows individuals to make consistent, ethical decisions and maintain integrity in their actions.


An actor can change himself to fit a part, whereas a personality has to change the part to fit himself. The personality has to say it his own way.

- Dale Robertson

Actor, Himself, Fit, Whereas

Don't ever take a dramatic lesson. They will try to put your voice in a dinner jacket, and people like their hominy and grits in everyday clothes.

- Dale Robertson

Voice, Will, Like, Everyday

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