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Richard Aldington Quotes

Powerful Richard Aldington for Daily Growth

About Richard Aldington

Richard Aldington (1892-1962) was an Anglo-American poet, novelist, and critic who made significant contributions to modernist literature. Born in Kent, England on June 2, 1892, Aldington spent his early years in a strict and repressive household that fueled his desire for intellectual freedom. His education began at Dover College and continued at King's College Cambridge, but he was expelled in 1911 due to his involvement in student politics. This event proved pivotal in Aldington's life as it led him to Paris, where he met Ezra Pound, James Joyce, and other luminaries of the modernist movement. Aldington's literary career began with the publication of "Images of Goodness" (1915), a collection of poems that reflected his disillusionment with war and the hypocrisy of Victorian society. This was followed by "Some Do Not...," a novel that depicted the devastating impact of World War I on young soldiers, which earned him critical acclaim. Aldington's most famous work is "Death of a Hero" (1918), an anti-war novel that tells the story of a young English soldier who dies in battle. This novel, along with his poetry, exemplified Aldington's commitment to exposing the horrors of war and questioning societal norms. After World War I, Aldington moved to America where he married fellow modernist poet H.D. Their tumultuous relationship was documented in "The Falcon's Eye" (1930) and "A Few More Memoirs of a Literary Cat" (1969). Despite their personal struggles, Aldington continued to produce works that reflected his commitment to social justice and intellectual freedom. Richard Aldington passed away on February 19, 1962, leaving behind a legacy as a key figure in the modernist movement who used his writing to challenge societal norms and expose the horrors of war. His enduring works continue to influence contemporary literature.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world."

This quote by Richard Aldington emphasizes that individuals should exemplify the positive change they aspire for in the world. In other words, if one wants to see a kinder, more just society, they must first embody those qualities themselves. It is a call to action, encouraging us to take personal responsibility for enacting the change we wish to witness globally.

"Art is the lie that reveals the truth."

This quote by Richard Aldington suggests that artistic expression, through its inherent distortion or exaggeration of reality, can reveal deeper, often hidden, aspects of truth about life, people, emotions, and experiences. Artistic licence allows artists to explore complexities beyond the confines of literal representation, enabling a truer reflection of human nature and existence than straightforward factual accounts may provide.

"Happiness is neither virtue nor pleasure nor this thing nor that but simply growth; we are happy when we are growing."

The quote suggests that happiness is not tied to specific states like virtues, pleasures, possessions or experiences, but rather it is the process of personal growth. Happiness, in this context, is found in continuous learning, development, and self-improvement. It implies that a fulfilled life is one where individuals strive for growth, be it intellectual, emotional, spiritual or otherwise. The implication is that we should seek opportunities to learn, adapt, and expand ourselves, rather than solely pursuing materialistic or temporary pleasures.

"The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance."

This quote by Richard Aldington encourages a proactive approach towards change, emphasizing that instead of fearing or resisting it, one should embrace it, adapt to it, and participate in the flow. The implication is that change is an inevitable part of life, and rather than trying to control or avoid it, we can find meaning and success by learning to navigate its challenges and seize its opportunities.

"Life is never stationary; we must always be on the move, else we rust and decay."

This quote emphasizes that life should not be static or stagnant but a continuous journey of growth and progression. Idleness can lead to deterioration, much like an inactive object that eventually corrodes. Therefore, the active pursuit of experiences, learning, and personal development is crucial for maintaining a vibrant, fulfilling life.

Nationalism is a silly cock crowing on his own dunghill.

- Richard Aldington

Patriotism, Silly, His, Nationalism

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