Dennis L. Mckiernan Quotes

Powerful Dennis L. Mckiernan for Daily Growth

About Dennis L. Mckiernan

Dennis L. McKiernan (born September 15, 1948) is an American fantasy author, artist, and game designer who has made significant contributions to the realm of speculative fiction. Born in Detroit, Michigan, McKiernan developed a love for storytelling at an early age, often weaving tales from the various science fiction and fantasy books he read. McKiernan's first professional publication was a short story titled "The Winds of Time" which appeared in Analog Science Fiction and Fact magazine in 1974. This marked the beginning of a prolific career that has spanned over four decades. His works, characterized by intricate world-building, complex characters, and thoughtful exploration of moral and ethical issues, have garnered him a dedicated fanbase. One of his most notable series is "The Riftwar Cycle," a set of novels set in the world of Kelewan that was initially created for the game company TSR's role-playing game, Legend of Krynn. The series includes the critically acclaimed novels "Amber Spyglass," "Silverthorn," and "The Sword of the Real." In addition to his fiction work, McKiernan is also known for his collaborations with game companies, particularly in the development of role-playing games. He has worked on projects such as TSR's Dragonlance, Legend of Krynn, and Shadow World. Throughout his career, Dennis L. McKiernan has been influenced by authors such as Robert E. Howard, Michael Moorcock, and J.R.R. Tolkien, and has himself become an influential figure in modern fantasy literature. His works continue to captivate readers with their richly imagined worlds and engaging narratives.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The greatest obstacle to a dream is action; the greatest dreamer is doer."

This quote suggests that the biggest barrier preventing dreams from becoming reality is inaction or lack of doing. It emphasizes that true dreamers are those who take action, transforming their dreams into tangible outcomes. In other words, it's not just about having big ideas or aspirations; what truly sets people apart is their willingness to make those dreams a reality through diligent effort and consistent action.


"Fear is the mind-killer, fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration. I will face my fear."

The quote emphasizes the debilitating effect of fear in our lives and encourages overcoming it for personal growth and survival. Fear is likened to a "mind-killer" that can lead to paralysis, preventing us from realizing our full potential or facing challenges effectively. By confronting fear, one can achieve self-preservation, symbolized by the phrase "I will face my fear." This quote serves as a powerful call to action for embracing courage and resilience in the face of adversity.


"Life, like a dagger of the mind, holds mortal poisons unseen."

The quote suggests that life, like a metaphorical dagger, can harbor harmful influences that are not immediately apparent or visible to the naked eye. These "mortal poisons" could symbolize various emotional traumas, toxic relationships, or negative thought patterns that may slowly corrode one's mental wellbeing and happiness. The quote serves as a reminder to be mindful of our experiences in life and not to dismiss apparent peace and calm, as they might conceal hidden dangers for our emotional health.


"The universe rewards those who work for it, not those who wish upon a star."

This quote suggests that taking active steps towards achieving one's goals is more effective than passively hoping for success to happen. It encourages the reader to put in effort, hard work, and dedication, rather than relying solely on luck or good fortune, as symbolized by wishing upon a star. In other words, the universe does not bestow rewards without effort – it responds positively to those who are proactive in pursuing their aspirations.


"Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved."

This quote emphasizes that destiny isn't something that happens by chance or luck, but rather it's the result of conscious choices we make in life. It encourages individuals to actively strive towards their goals instead of passively waiting for them to occur. Essentially, it suggests that one must take control and make deliberate decisions to shape their own future, rather than leaving it to fate or circumstances beyond their control.


In 1989, I retired from Bell Laboratories to become a full-time writer. Not that I didn't enjoy my engineering career, but rather I liked being a novelist just a bit better.

- Dennis L. McKiernan

Career, Full-Time, Rather, Novelist

A middle child, I was born in the depths of the Great Depression. My dad and mom were factory workers, struggling to make ends meet.

- Dennis L. McKiernan

Middle, Factory, Dad, Depths

Upon graduation from high school, following my brother by a couple of years, I joined the U.S. Air Force.

- Dennis L. McKiernan

Air, Couple, Joined, Air Force

The Kwajalein waters are incredibly lucid: vision typically up to three hundred feet.

- Dennis L. McKiernan

Vision, Feet, Hundred, Waters

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