Judith Rossner Quotes

Powerful Judith Rossner for Daily Growth

About Judith Rossner

Judith Rossner (1935-2005) was an American novelist known for her insightful explorations of family dynamics and the human condition. Born on August 26, 1935, in New York City, Rossner grew up in a working-class Jewish family that heavily influenced her writing. Her father's occupation as a bookkeeper instilled in her a deep love for literature. Rossner attended Hunter College, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in English and Education in 1956. She went on to earn a Master's degree from Columbia University Teachers College. However, it was her experiences as a teacher that led her to the world of fiction writing. Unsatisfied with the limitations of the classroom, she decided to pursue a career as an author. Rossner's debut novel, "Look at Me" (1964), was a critical and commercial success. The story of a young woman struggling with her identity and family relationships resonated deeply with readers. This was followed by "How It Was" (1970), which delved into the lives of three generations of an American Jewish family. Both novels were bestsellers, establishing Rossner as a significant voice in contemporary literature. In 1973, Rossner published her most renowned work, "Einfalt, du toter Engel" (translated as "Simplicity, You Dead Angel"), which was set in pre-World War II Germany and explored the complexities of love and moral integrity during a time of great turmoil. The novel was critically acclaimed and won the National Book Award for Fiction. Rossner's later works included "The Four Mothers" (1983) and "My Sister's Keeper" (1995). Despite battling breast cancer for many years, she continued to write until her death on March 27, 2005. Judith Rossner's legacy lies in her powerful portrayals of family, love, and the human spirit, making a lasting impact on American literature.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Love is never having to say you're sorry."

The quote "Love is never having to say you're sorry" by Judith Rossner suggests that in a deeply loving relationship, there is a mutual understanding, forgiveness, and acceptance between partners. It implies a level of trust, empathy, and compassion where apologies are unnecessary because the love transcends any mistake or misunderstanding. However, it's essential to note that this quote does not advocate for disregarding one's responsibilities or actions' consequences but rather underscores the strength and depth of true love where apologies are seldom needed due to the unconditional bond shared by the partners.


"The best things in life are free. The second best are very expensive."

This quote suggests that the most valuable aspects of life are intangible, such as love, friendship, gratitude, or personal growth, which are priceless and freely available to all. However, items or experiences that bring temporary happiness or satisfaction, like luxury goods or exclusive experiences, often come with a high financial cost, making them the "second best." The quote encourages us to prioritize what truly matters in life and not get too caught up in material possessions or status symbols.


"It took me a long time not to judge myself through someone else's eyes."

This quote highlights the struggle many people face in accepting themselves as they are, rather than conforming to external standards or expectations set by others. It emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and personal growth, suggesting that it takes effort, time, and self-awareness to stop judging oneself based on other people's opinions, and instead develop a genuine understanding and appreciation for oneself. In essence, it encourages individuals to cultivate self-love, self-worth, and self-respect.


"People change and forget to tell each other."

This quote by Judith Rossner emphasizes the often-unacknowledged nature of personal growth and transformation. People tend to evolve, learn, and adapt over time, but these changes are not always communicated to others. The failure to update our relationships with this newfound self can lead to misunderstandings, strained bonds, or even the dissolution of connections. It's a poignant reminder for all of us to stay mindful of personal growth and communicate those changes effectively in our relationships.


"In every conceivable manner, the living exist for the dead, and the dead exist for the living."

This quote by Judith Rossner emphasizes the interconnectedness between life and death, suggesting that the experiences and memories of the deceased continue to influence and impact those who are still alive. Conversely, the living serve as a means to remember, honor, and carry on the legacies of the dead. It underscores the idea that we are not isolated entities but part of a continuous cycle where our stories and actions reverberate through generations, leaving an indelible mark on those who follow us.


My abiding theme is separations.

- Judith Rossner

Theme, Abide

It's astonishing what some women will put up with just to have a warm body. Some of the brightest women I know are just obsessed with that search. It's very sad.

- Judith Rossner

Some, Obsessed, Very, Brightest

My first book took five years to write and I made $1,000 on it. The second took three years and I made $3,000. All this time I was a housewife being supported by a husband. I was very lucky.

- Judith Rossner

Lucky, Very, Took, Housewife

I'm a lousy journalist.

- Judith Rossner

Journalist, Lousy

I'd like to get out of here without having to talk to the producer.

- Judith Rossner

Here, Like, Having, Producer

Writers are the lunatic fringe of publishing.

- Judith Rossner

Lunatic, Fringe, Writers, Publishing

I knew I'd have to go to work in real estate or something else or I could never finish my novel.

- Judith Rossner

Work, Knew, Could, Finish

It takes far less courage to kill yourself than it takes to make yourself wake up one more time. It's harder to stay where you are than to get out. For everyone but you, that is.

- Judith Rossner

Wake Up, More, Everyone, Far Less

The more interesting the 9-to-5 work is, the more it takes away from my real work, which is writing.

- Judith Rossner

More, Away, Which, Real Work

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