John Dillinger Quotes

Powerful John Dillinger for Daily Growth

About John Dillinger

John Dillinger, not to be confused with the famous gangster of the same name, was an American author and screenwriter who made significant contributions to crime fiction during the mid-twentieth century. Born on August 30, 1914, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Dillinger grew up in a middle-class family where he developed a deep love for reading and storytelling. During his early years, Dillinger was heavily influenced by authors such as Dashiell Hammett, Raymond Chandler, and Cornell Woolrich. Their works sparked his interest in crime fiction, which would later become the primary focus of his writing career. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, he attended Indiana University but dropped out before graduating. In 1945, Dillinger published his first novel, "The Big Clock," a suspenseful tale about an editor trapped within the walls of a publishing company by a ruthless boss who seeks revenge. The book was a success, establishing Dillinger as a promising new voice in crime fiction. Over the next few years, he published several more novels, including "Strange Bedfellows" (1946), "Man Hunt" (1950), and "The Pushover" (1952). These works continued to explore themes of crime, suspense, and morality, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. Dillinger's most famous work is arguably the screenplay for "A Man Called Peter" (1955), an adaptation of the autobiography of Reverend Peter Marshall. The film was a massive success, garnering six Academy Award nominations and boosting Dillinger's career as a screenwriter. Despite his success, Dillinger struggled with alcoholism throughout his life. He died on July 29, 1964, at the age of 49, following a heart attack brought on by chronic liver disease. His legacy continues to live on in crime fiction and film, with his works still celebrated today for their gripping stories and sharp wit.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I'm very cool, and I'm very hip."

This quote by John Dillinger, a notorious American gangster of the 1930s, suggests that he perceived himself as stylish, modern, and fashionable, or in other words, "cool" and "hip" according to the standards of his time. He was expressing an air of self-confidence and charisma often associated with these terms. It also hints at his belief in standing out from the crowd, which is a characteristic that might have contributed to his allure as a figure in American folklore.


"You can't con a crook, kid."

This quote by John Dillinger suggests that dishonesty is universally understood among criminals, making it difficult for one to deceive another criminal because of their shared knowledge and experience in illicit activities. It implies that a level of trust or understanding exists between them, which can make cons and deceit less effective.


"If it weren't for the law, we'd have no sin at all."

This quote by John Dillinger, a notorious bank robber during the Great Depression, is a reflection of his cynical view towards societal norms. He suggests that laws, which serve to regulate behavior, create the concept of "sin" or wrongdoing in society. In essence, he implies that without rules and regulations, people would not have opportunities to transgress or misbehave. This quote can be interpreted as a commentary on human nature and the role that societal expectations play in shaping our moral compass.


"They can have the bank. I just wanted the girl."

The quote suggests that materialistic desires, such as wealth represented by a bank, are secondary for John Dillinger compared to his feelings for a woman, symbolized as "the girl." It indicates a prioritization of personal relationships over material possessions or status symbols, revealing a focus on human connection rather than financial gain.


"I guess I'm dangerous at close quarters."

This quote implies that John Dillinger, a notorious American gangster, recognized his own potential for causing harm or disruption when he was in close proximity to others, particularly law enforcement officers. He acknowledges that he poses a threat to those around him due to his criminal activities and dangerous nature. The quote emphasizes the personal accountability of one's actions, especially when dealing with authority figures, and the need for caution and vigilance in such situations.


My buddies wanted to be firemen, farmers or policemen, something like that. Not me, I just wanted to steal people's money!

- John Dillinger

Farmers, Like, Steal, Policemen

No; small timers get into it, and ruin it for everyone.

- John Dillinger

Small, Everyone, Get, Ruin

All my life I wanted to be a bank robber. Carry a gun and wear a mask. Now that it's happened I guess I'm just about the best bank robber they ever had. And I sure am happy.

- John Dillinger

Happy, My Life, Gun, Robber

Now nobody get nervous, you ain't got nothing to fear. You're being robbed by the John Dillinger Gang, that's the best there is!

- John Dillinger

Best, Nothing, Gang, Robbed

OK, boys; let's go make a withdrawal.

- John Dillinger

Go, OK, Make, Withdrawal

I rob banks for a living, what do you do?

- John Dillinger

Living, You, Banks, Rob

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.