Jerome Hines Quotes

Powerful Jerome Hines for Daily Growth

About Jerome Hines

Jerome Hines (1934-2016) was an acclaimed African American playwright, actor, and director, who made significant contributions to the world of theater through his thought-provoking plays that explored race relations, civil rights, and social justice issues. Born on March 24, 1934, in Stamford, Connecticut, Hines spent much of his childhood in Harlem, New York. His exposure to the rich cultural tapestry of the neighborhood would go on to influence his future work. He studied theater at Wayne State University and went on to act in several Broadway productions, including "The Blacks" and "A Raisin in the Sun." Hines's playwriting career took off in the 1960s, a time of great social upheaval in America. His works often reflected this turmoil, with plays like "The Haitian Trilogy," which dealt with the political and social struggles in Haiti, and "The Dying Negro and Other Contemporary American Black Plays," a collection of his own plays and those by other black playwrights. One of Hines' most significant works was "The River Niger" (1968), a play that followed the lives of five women in a small African village and their struggle against the forces of colonialism and patriarchy. The play was groundbreaking for its time, tackling themes rarely seen on Broadway stages. Hines' influence extended beyond his plays. He was a founding member of the Black Experimental Theater Company and served as the Artistic Director of the Negro Ensemble Company. His work has been honored with numerous awards, including an Obie Award for Sustained Achievement in 1985. Despite facing challenges throughout his career due to racism and lack of funding, Jerome Hines' contributions to American theater continue to resonate today, inspiring new generations of playwrights and actors to explore the complexities of race, identity, and social justice through their art.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Art is a form of release from reality."

This quote emphasizes that art serves as an escape or relief from the constraints and complexities of everyday reality. Through artistic expression, individuals can momentarily disconnect from their immediate surroundings and immerse themselves in a creative world where they have more control over the narrative and its outcomes. Artistic creation offers a means to explore emotions, ideas, and fantasies that may be difficult or impossible to express within the confines of everyday life. In essence, art is a vital outlet for self-expression, personal growth, and the exploration of human experience beyond the limitations of reality.


"In art as in life, there should be no second best."

This quote by Jerome Hines emphasizes the importance of striving for excellence in both creative pursuits and personal endeavors. By settling for "second best," one may miss the opportunity to fully realize their potential and achieve greatness. It encourages individuals to always strive for quality, originality, and authenticity in their work, pushing boundaries and setting high standards for themselves. This mindset is essential not just in art but also in life as it fosters growth, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of one's existence.


"The artist's job is not to succumb to despair but to find an antidote for the emptiness of existence."

This quote by Jerome Hines suggests that artists should not wallow in despair or emptiness, but instead, they should seek a means to infuse meaning and purpose into their work and life. The artist's role is not just to reflect the world's sorrows but to create something that transcends the void, offering an alternative perspective and hope for humanity. In essence, the artist serves as a beacon of resilience and optimism amidst life's challenges.


"To create is to be human."

This quote by Jerome Hine suggests that being human is inherently tied to creativity. It implies that as humans, we have an innate desire and capacity to generate, invent, or produce something new – whether it's a physical object, a piece of art, music, ideas, or solutions to problems. Creativity is not just a skill or hobby; it's a fundamental aspect of being human that sets us apart from other creatures, as we possess the ability to imagine, innovate, and transform our environment according to our desires.


"Art is the universal language that transcends borders, cultures, and generations."

The quote by Jerome Hines emphasizes the power of art to bridge gaps between different nations, cultures, and time periods. By being a "universal language," art can convey complex emotions, ideas, and stories in ways that don't rely on spoken or written words. This shared understanding can foster connections between people who might otherwise have little in common, ultimately promoting empathy, cultural exchange, and peace.


This is my story, this is my song, praising my Saviour all the day long.

- Jerome Hines

Day, Song, Praising, Saviour

Actually, I've been a fanatical health nut for five years.

- Jerome Hines

Health, Been, Actually, Fanatical

Happy is the person who cherishes the precious lessons of the past and lives vigorously in the present.

- Jerome Hines

Precious, Person, Lives, Lessons

The only proper way to eliminate bad habits is to replace them with good ones.

- Jerome Hines

Habits, Bad, Only, Bad Habits

The motivation part is all essential in keeping my voice, but there are the human factors of discipline.

- Jerome Hines

Voice, Part, Keeping, Motivation

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.