Ned Vizzini Quotes

Powerful Ned Vizzini for Daily Growth

About Ned Vizzini

Ned Vizzini (October 18, 1981 – December 19, 2013) was an American writer, playwright, and speaker, best known for his young adult novels that tackled themes of mental health and self-discovery. Born in Great Neck, New York, Vizzini grew up with a passion for theater and writing, often crediting the works of Douglas Adams, Kurt Vonnegut Jr., and J.D. Salinger as influential during his formative years. After attending Tufts University, Vizzini dropped out in 2003, feeling that he wasn't finding the intellectual stimulation he needed there. This event, along with personal struggles with mental health issues, served as the basis for much of his writing. His first novel, "It's Kind of a Funny Story" (2006), was semi-autobiographical and told the story of a teenage boy dealing with depression and anxiety. The book was well received, earning him critical acclaim and a nomination for the Michael L. Printz Award. Vizzini continued to write novels such as "Be More Chill" (2004), which has been adapted into a successful Off-Broadway musical, and "The Other Normals" (2013). His work often combined humor with raw emotional honesty, making him a favorite among young adult readers. In addition to his novels, Vizzini wrote the plays "The Flicker Men" (2009) and "The Permanent Revolution" (2010), and was a contributor to The Huffington Post. Tragically, Vizzini took his own life in 2013, leaving behind a powerful legacy that continues to inspire and resonate with readers around the world. His work remains a testament to the power of storytelling in helping individuals navigate the complexities of mental health and self-discovery.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"In a world where you can be anything, be kind."

This quote emphasizes the importance of kindness in a world that offers limitless possibilities. It suggests that while one may have the ability to assume any role or identity, demonstrating kindness should be a constant, regardless of circumstances. Kindness is not just an act but a mindset, reflecting empathy, understanding, and consideration towards others. The quote encourages individuals to prioritize compassion as they navigate their lives and relationships, creating a more harmonious world for all.


"I decide upon this moment what my future is, and I decided that my future is going to be very good indeed."

This quote emphasizes self-determination and optimism. It suggests that the speaker has the power to shape their own destiny by making a conscious decision in the present moment for a positive future. The phrase "very good indeed" underscores the level of positivity, hope, and ambition they hold for their tomorrow. Essentially, it's a call to seize control over one's life trajectory and approach the future with confidence and enthusiasm.


"The most important thing is this: to be always at war with yourself beware of all enterprises that require new clothes."

This quote by Ned Vizzini underscores the importance of self-awareness and personal growth. It warns against engaging in endeavors or pursuits that necessitate a drastic change in one's identity or persona, as such changes might be superficial or temporary. Instead, it encourages individuals to strive for inner peace and consistency rather than seeking external validation through new clothes (symbolizing a fresh image or impression). In essence, the quote advises us to focus on personal development and authenticity in life's ventures.


"Don't let yesterday take up too much of today."

This quote by Ned Vizzini encourages a forward-looking mindset, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the present moment instead of dwelling on the past. Yesterday's events, regardless of whether they were positive or negative, should not consume our energy or prevent us from moving forward in life. By letting go of yesterday and embracing today, we open ourselves up to new experiences, growth, and opportunities for personal development and success.


"I am in the process of reclaiming my time, and I encourage you to do the same."

This quote by Ned Vizzini encourages individuals to take control over their own time, prioritizing personal needs and goals. It implies a call to action for self-reflection and making conscious choices about how one spends their time in order to live a more fulfilling life. Essentially, it's about recognizing that you have the power to manage your time effectively, so take the initiative to reclaim it and make every moment count.


People have always asked me why I'm drawn to material about kids, and for me, it's - I remember being at that age and feeling completely and utterly powerless. You know, there's so many things you wanna do and so many things you're told you can't do.

- Ned Vizzini

I Remember, Why, About, Asked

'Game of Thrones' cares about children. Children are heirs. There's no hemming and hawing about how they're desensitized to violence or they cost too much to send to college. They're a blessing - in many ways the only blessing - and even the evil ones have parents who love them.

- Ned Vizzini

Love, College, Game, Heirs

Adolescence is the most Technicolor time in our lives. It's the time when adulthood is new and we care most about it. It contains the highs and lows that excite me as a writer.

- Ned Vizzini

New, About, Lives, Excite

A novel wouldn't be a book if there weren't some flights of fancy on the part of the author, stopping time to examine things, or to tell a joke.

- Ned Vizzini

Fancy, Some, Examine, Joke

You have tremendous freedom in the young adult book world to write what you want. You can put R-rated content in a book that you can't in a similarly targeted movie.

- Ned Vizzini

Book, Young, Movie, Targeted

I always start a book thinking that it can be something other than first-person present, and I always come back to first-person present. It's just the easiest way.

- Ned Vizzini

Book, Always, Other, First-Person

Putting lessons in young adult books is very dangerous.

- Ned Vizzini

Very, Books, Putting, Lessons

I have an issue with dogs - I can't pick up after them. It's nothing personal; it just makes me feel like a servant.

- Ned Vizzini

Nothing, Like, Issue, Dogs

A lot of the books that I grew up reading were pretty brutal, like the 'Redwall' books.

- Ned Vizzini

Pretty, Books, Lot, Brutal

Once you have a kid, it's amazing how quickly people ask, 'So are you going to stop at just one?'

- Ned Vizzini

Kid, Going, Quickly, Just One

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