Damon Runyon Quotes

Powerful Damon Runyon for Daily Growth

About Damon Runyon

Damon Runyon (1884-1946) was an American journalist, fiction writer, and dramatist, best known for his colorful stories about New York City's underworld set in the 1920s and 30s. Born on July 7, 1884, in Manhattan, Runyon developed a love for storytelling at an early age, which was nurtured by his mother, a former actress. After dropping out of high school, Runyon worked various jobs, including as a newspaper carrier and a newsboy for the New York World. He joined the military during World War I but was discharged after a year due to a heart condition. Returning to civilian life, he found work as a sports writer for the New York American. In 1907, Runyon married Claire Hutson, with whom he had three children. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 1926. During his time at the New York American, Runyon began writing short stories about the characters he encountered in the city's underworld, a world he was familiar with from his days as a newsboy and sports writer. Runyon's first collection of these stories, "Guys and Dolls," was published in 1933. The book was a success, and it led to a long-running Broadway musical of the same name, which premiered in 1950. Other notable works by Runyon include "Irene" (1919), a play that won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and "The Fix Is In" (1946), a collection of short stories published posthumously. Throughout his career, Runyon's writing was characterized by its vivid language, unique dialogue, and colorful characters. He died on December 10, 1946, in Lakeville, Connecticut. Today, Damon Runyon is remembered not only for his contributions to American literature but also for his ability to capture the spirit of a era in his stories.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong—but that's the way to bet."

Damon Runyon's quote "The race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong—but that's the way to bet" suggests a witty commentary on life's unpredictability. It implies that in many cases, success or victory does not solely depend on one's speed (quickness) or strength; rather, there are multiple factors at play. Yet, when it comes to placing a bet or making predictions about the outcome of events, it is often more pragmatic to side with the swift and strong due to their apparent advantages. The quote humorously acknowledges the discrepancy between reality and our tendency to favor the seemingly obvious choices in uncertain situations.


"One advantage of being disorderly is that one is constantly making exciting discoveries."

This quote suggests that being disorganized or disorderly can sometimes lead to new and interesting discoveries, as one may stray from the routine and explore uncharted paths more frequently than someone who adheres strictly to order. It implies that a certain level of chaos can foster creativity and innovation by encouraging exploration, serendipity, and the unexpected.


"The more you have, the more you do, the more you do, the less you understand."

This quote by Damon Runyon suggests that as one accumulates possessions or responsibilities (the "more you have"), they often find themselves engaging in a greater number of activities ("the more you do"). However, the increased pace and complexity of life may lead to a decrease in understanding, as one becomes overwhelmed or distracted by their commitments, making it harder to comprehend the deeper meanings or consequences of their actions. In other words, having too much can lead to doing too much, which may ultimately result in a loss of clarity or wisdom.


"Madame, life is a very funny affair; selection is all. You must know what to keep and what to throw away."

Damon Runyon's quote suggests that life is full of experiences, possessions, and people, but it's essential to discern what's valuable and what isn't, as choosing wisely can greatly impact one's journey through life. In other words, we should learn to prioritize and focus on the things that truly matter while letting go of unnecessary distractions and obstacles.


"It's always easy to crack jokes when other people are paying the bill."

This quote by Damon Runyon suggests that it's often easier for someone to make light-hearted comments or jokes at another's expense, especially financially, as they are not the ones bearing the cost of those actions. The speaker implies a subtle criticism about people who find humor in situations where they have no personal stake or obligation to cover the expenses involved. This quote can be seen as a commentary on human nature, revealing our tendency to feel less accountable when we're not personally invested in a situation.


You can become a winner only if you are willing to walk over the edge.

- Damon Runyon

Edge, Over, Willing, Winner

You can keep the things of bronze and stone and give me one man to remember me just once a year.

- Damon Runyon

Give, Year, Bronze, Stone

I once knew a chap who had a system of just hanging the baby on the clothes line to dry and he was greatly admired by his fellow citizens for having discovered a wonderful innovation on changing a diaper.

- Damon Runyon

Line, Discovered, Had, Chap

The race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, but that's the way to bet.

- Damon Runyon

Battle, Always, Nor, Swift

The race may not always be to the swift nor the victory to the strong, but that's how you bet.

- Damon Runyon

Always, Bet, Nor, Swift

I long ago came to the conclusion that all life is 6 to 5 against.

- Damon Runyon

Long, Against, Came, Conclusion

Always try to rub up against money, for if you rub up against money long enough, some of it may rub off on you.

- Damon Runyon

Some, Always, May, Rub

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