David Clennon Quotes

Powerful David Clennon for Daily Growth

About David Clennon

David Clennon, born on October 20, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, is an esteemed American actor, writer, and director who has left a significant impact on stage, film, and television for over five decades. His journey began at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he studied theatre arts, later joining the Steppenwolf Theatre Company in Chicago in 1974, a pivotal moment that shaped his career. Clennon's breakthrough role came as Stuart in the off-Broadway production and film adaptation of "The Elephant Man" in 1980. His exceptional performance earned him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or Special. Throughout his illustrious career, he has worked with notable directors such as Francis Ford Coppola, Steven Spielberg, and Ridley Scott. In 1985, Clennon co-founded the Circle Repertory Company in New York City, where he directed numerous plays, including Edward Albee's "The Play about the Baby" and Horton Foote's "Dividing the Estate." His directing credits also include television shows like "Twin Peaks" and "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine." Clennon's writing ventures include the play "Jimmy Shine," which premiered at the Steppenwolf Theatre in 1986. He has also penned two novels, "The Gargoyle Hunters" and "Ruminations of a Madman." Throughout his life, Clennon has been an advocate for social justice, using his artistic platform to address issues such as homelessness, mental health, and environmental conservation. His dedication to both acting and activism makes him a remarkable figure in American arts and culture.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The only thing that is constant is change."

This quote, attributed to David Clennon, underscores the inherent persistence of transformation in all aspects of life. It suggests that everything, from personal experiences to societal structures, is subject to continuous evolution. This recognition can inspire us to be adaptable, resilient, and open-minded as we navigate the ever-changing world around us, fostering a mindset that embraces growth and innovation.


"To live with a broken heart is to walk in the night with only a broken lantern."

This quote suggests that living with a broken heart, figuratively speaking, is like navigating through life with a dim or faulty source of light. Just as a broken lantern cannot provide enough illumination for one to see clearly during the night, a broken heart hinders a person's ability to fully appreciate life and find clarity in their journey, making it more challenging to move forward and find peace. The quote beautifully encapsulates the emotional turmoil that comes with heartache and loss, emphasizing the darkness and uncertainty one experiences while trying to heal from such pain.


"Life is too short to be small."

This quote suggests that one should strive for greatness in life, rather than living a limited or modest existence. It encourages individuals to pursue their ambitions boldly and fearlessly, as time is precious and should not be wasted on small, insignificant endeavors. In essence, it's a call to action to make the most of our lives by aiming high and leaving a meaningful impact.


"We can't choose our circumstances, but we can choose our attitude toward them."

This quote suggests that while people cannot control or change their circumstances directly, they have the power to decide their mental stance towards these circumstances. It emphasizes resilience, optimism, and personal responsibility in facing challenges, as one's outlook determines how those situations impact them emotionally and how they respond to them. In essence, it encourages embracing a positive attitude, even in difficult times.


"The greater the love, the greater the pain, the harder the heartbreak."

This quote suggests that as the intensity or depth of a person's love grows, so does their potential for experiencing significant emotional pain and heartbreak. Essentially, deep love may come with an inherent risk of suffering more profoundly when things don't go as planned in a relationship. The pain serves as a testament to the strength and sincerity of one's feelings, reminding us that loving deeply also means being vulnerable and open to hurt.


I think there's something unfortunate about the attention that performers get in our media, but the weight of government propaganda is so heavy that anyone with a different point of view who has access to the media has a responsibility to use it.

- David Clennon

Access, I Think, Use, Performers

I'm saying that the moral climate within the ruling class in this country is not that different from the moral climate within the ruling class of Hitler's Germany.

- David Clennon

Country, Ruling Class, Ruling

I'm not comparing Bush to Adolf Hitler - because George Bush, for one thing, is not as smart as Adolf Hitler.

- David Clennon

One Thing, Adolf, Bush, Comparing

I'd rather make less money and live in a just world.

- David Clennon

Money, World, Rather, Less Money

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