E. Y. Harburg Quotes

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"It's only to the extent that we know and care about the people whose stories we're telling that we can create something that may move an audience."

This quote emphasizes the importance of empathy and connection in the process of storytelling. The more deeply a creator knows and cares about the people whose lives they are portraying, the more authentic and impactful their stories become. Such emotional investment can resonate with an audience, evoking strong emotions and fostering understanding between different individuals.

"Somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue, and the dreams that you dare to dream really do come true."

This quote by E.Y. Harburg from "Over the Rainbow" is a poetic expression of hope, optimism, and the power of dreams. It suggests that beyond our current struggles (the rainbow), there lies a realm where our aspirations can become reality. The skies being blue symbolizes a peaceful, achievable future. Essentially, it encourages one to dare to dream, because if nurtured with courage and determination, those dreams might just come true.

"Life is a series of crises, each one leading to the next, and the only thing that counts is how you meet them."

This quote suggests that life is inherently challenging, with a continuous succession of difficulties (or "crises") we must navigate. However, it emphasizes that the true significance lies not in the crises themselves, but in our response to them - how we face, adapt, and grow from these challenges. It encourages resilience, personal growth, and the ability to learn and transform in the face of adversity.

"You've got to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, start all over again."

This quote by E.Y. Harburg encourages resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity or failure. It suggests that when one encounters setbacks, they should not be disheartened but instead, regroup, learn from their experiences, and continue moving forward with renewed determination. Essentially, it's a call to action for getting back on track after facing challenges.

"A cynic is a man who knows the price of everything and the value of nothing."

This quote suggests that a cynic, despite knowing the monetary or material cost of things, lacks an appreciation for their inherent worth or significance. The quote implies that true value isn't solely determined by its exchange value but rather by its emotional, intellectual, or moral importance, which a cynic might overlook due to their skeptical and pessimistic outlook on life.