Elizabeth Ashley Quotes

Powerful Elizabeth Ashley for Daily Growth

About Elizabeth Ashley

Elizabeth Ashley (1939-2015) was an American playwright and actress who made significant contributions to the world of theater and literature. Born on March 16, 1939, in New York City, she spent her early years surrounded by a family deeply involved in arts and entertainment. Her father, John Carroll Nash, was a Broadway actor, and her mother, Elizabeth (Betty) Brown Ashley, was a prominent theater critic. Ashley began her acting career on the stage at an early age, making her Broadway debut in 1957 at just 18 years old with "The Desperate Hours." Her talent quickly caught the attention of critics and audiences alike, leading to numerous roles on both stage and screen throughout the 1960s. However, Ashley's true passion lay in writing. In 1973, she penned her first play, "Beggars in the House of Plenty," which premiered at the Circle in the Square Theatre in New York City. The play received critical acclaim and was nominated for multiple Tony Awards, marking the beginning of Ashley's successful career as a playwright. Throughout her life, Ashley continued to write and act. Some of her other notable works include "The Gathering" (1979), "A Cooler Climate" (1980), and "Three Changeables" (1986). Her plays often explored themes of family dynamics, social issues, and the human condition, showcasing her keen insight and emotional depth. Elizabeth Ashley passed away on August 27, 2015, at the age of 76. Her work continues to be performed and studied, leaving a lasting impact on American theater and literature. Her legacy serves as an inspiration for aspiring writers and actresses, embodying the power of art to provoke thought, challenge norms, and bring people together.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

This quote highlights the lasting impact emotions have on individuals. Regardless of actions or words, it is the feelings evoked in others that they tend to remember most vividly. By treating people with kindness, empathy, and respect, we create positive, memorable experiences and strengthen relationships. Conversely, negative interactions are also likely to be remembered and may leave a lasting, unfavorable impression. Essentially, Elizabeth Ashley emphasizes the importance of prioritizing emotional connections in our interactions with others.


"The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do."

This quote emphasizes the satisfaction derived from overcoming challenges or proving others wrong, particularly when faced with the assertion that a task or goal is impossible. It encourages persistence, resilience, and the pursuit of personal growth beyond what society or others may deem attainable. Success in such instances brings great pleasure because it validates one's abilities, ambitions, and determination.


"To live is to choose. Choose wisely."

The quote by Elizabeth Ashley emphasizes that life, in essence, is a series of choices. It suggests that every moment, decision we make shapes our future, making it essential to choose wisely. This profound statement underscores the significance of mindfulness, foresight, and responsibility when making decisions throughout one's journey in life.


"Success is not measured by what you accomplish, but by the opposition you have encountered, and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds."

This quote emphasizes that success should not solely be defined by achievements, but also by the obstacles one overcomes in pursuit of their goals. The challenges faced and the resilience demonstrated amidst difficult circumstances are key indicators of success. It suggests that facing "overwhelming odds" and maintaining courage despite them shows a greater depth of determination and character. In other words, it's not just about what you achieve, but how you navigate the adversity along the way that truly defines your success.


"The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance."

This quote suggests that rather than fearing or resisting change, one should embrace it, adapt to it, and even enjoy the process by treating it like a dance. Change is inevitable in life, and attempting to understand and navigate it effectively requires active participation and flexibility. By moving with change, we can find meaning in its dynamic nature and grow through the experiences it presents.


Absence does not make the heart grow fonder, but it sure heats up the blood.

- Elizabeth Ashley

Grow, Absence, Sure, Fonder

In a great romance, each person basically plays a part that the other really likes.

- Elizabeth Ashley

Other, Romance, Plays, Likes

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