Paul Cleave Quotes

Powerful Paul Cleave for Daily Growth

About Paul Cleave

Paul Cleave, born on May 17, 1974, in New Zealand, is a renowned crime fiction writer who has made significant contributions to the genre with his darkly humorous and psychologically complex narratives. Born and raised in Christchurch, Cleave was heavily influenced by local crime scenes as well as the works of Arthur Conan Doyle, Agatha Christie, and Stephen King. He studied at the University of Canterbury, majoring in English and History, which provided him with a solid foundation for his future literary career. Cleave's professional writing journey began in journalism, working as a reporter for The Press in Christchurch. However, it was his debut novel, "The Cleaner" (2006), that catapulted him into the realm of crime fiction. This dark comedy about a forensic cleaner won the Ngaio Marsh Award for Best First Novel. His subsequent works, such as "Trinity" (2010) and "The Lone Wolf" (2016), have continued to garner critical acclaim and awards. Cleave's stories often revolve around characters grappling with their mental health issues, reflecting his personal interest in psychology and the human condition. Cleave's unique blend of humor, horror, and suspense has earned him a dedicated following worldwide. He continues to reside in Christchurch with his family and is an active member of the local writing community, often participating in workshops and literary events. His latest work, "The Hangman's Song" (2021), promises to continue the darkly humorous journey through crime-ridden landscapes that have made Paul Cleave a beloved figure in the world of crime fiction.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Fear is a funny thing. It can make you run faster than you ever thought possible."

This quote by Paul Cleave highlights that fear, when faced, has an extraordinary power to propel us beyond our perceived limits. The fear-induced adrenaline surge can drive us to act swiftly and decisively in challenging situations, demonstrating human resilience and adaptability in the face of danger or obstacles. In essence, it is a call to embrace and channel fear productively for self-preservation and growth.


"We all have our secrets, our hidden places we keep locked away."

This quote by Paul Cleave highlights that everyone harbors personal, private aspects or experiences they choose to conceal from others. These "secrets" and "hidden places" can be anything from past regrets, deep emotions, fears, or dreams that we keep locked away due to fear of judgment, shame, or the desire for privacy. The quote serves as a reminder that understanding and empathy are crucial in human relationships, as everyone carries their own unique set of secrets and personal struggles.


"The things that were once unbearable become just the stuff of life, and then one day, they're stories."

This quote by Paul Cleave suggests that we can learn to cope with difficult or painful experiences over time, turning them into a part of our personal narrative. Initially, these hardships may seem unbearable, but as we move forward in life, they transform into merely elements of our lived experiences. Eventually, the passage of time may convert these experiences into stories that we can share or reflect upon, demonstrating resilience and growth.


"There are some mysteries best left unsolved, some crimes too terrible to bring to light."

This quote suggests that there are certain events or truths in life that may be better left undiscovered, as they could bring about more pain or harm than good. The "mysteries" or "crimes" referred to here are so terrible or profoundly upsetting that revealing them might not serve any beneficial purpose and could potentially cause further distress to those involved or society at large. It implies a sense of restraint, wisdom, and understanding when deciding what truths should be pursued, especially when the consequences could be overwhelmingly negative.


"Happiness is a difficult thing to hold onto when you know it can be taken away at any moment."

This quote by Paul Cleave underscores the fleeting, fragile nature of happiness in our lives. It suggests that happiness is a precious but delicate state, easily lost due to life's uncertainties and unpredictable events. Recognizing this vulnerability can encourage us to cherish our moments of joy even more, appreciating them as fleeting gifts rather than permanent fixtures. Furthermore, acknowledging the transient aspect of happiness can motivate us to create meaningful connections and seize opportunities in life, recognizing that the impermanence of happiness serves as a reminder to live fully and love deeply.


'Cemetery Lake' was an interesting book to write.

- Paul Cleave

Book, Interesting, Cemetery, Lake

There's a bunch of Stephen King books I love. 'Salem's Lot' was always one of my favourites. 'It.' 'Needful Things.' Moving away from King, and 'Silence of the Lambs' is always a good choice.

- Paul Cleave

Love, Away, Salem, Lambs

Sometimes I think, 'Why should I care about doing well in New Zealand?'

- Paul Cleave

Doing, Think, New, I Care

I had to sell my house and make a lot of sacrifices to become a writer, and it sucks not to get taken seriously.

- Paul Cleave

Sell, Sacrifices, Had, Sucks

You simply couldn't make a living as an author if New Zealand was your only market.

- Paul Cleave

New, Living, Author, New Zealand

I spent years only ever reading horror and then trying to write horror - and deep down, a horror writer is still what I'd love to be. But it wasn't until I started writing crime that things began to work for me.

- Paul Cleave

Love, Deep, Down, Deep Down

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