Richard Chizmar Quotes

Powerful Richard Chizmar for Daily Growth

About Richard Chizmar

Richard Chizmar is an American horror and suspense fiction author, editor, and publisher who has made significant contributions to the genre. Born on August 7, 1963, in Baltimore, Maryland, he grew up surrounded by a family that fostered his love for reading and storytelling. Chizmar's literary journey began at a young age when he started writing short stories and poems. However, it was his discovery of Stephen King's 'Salem's Lot' that sparked his passion for horror fiction. This influence would later lead him to found Cemetery Dance Publications in 1988, one of the most successful small presses dedicated to the horror and suspense genres. Throughout his career, Chizmar has worked with many renowned authors, including King, Peter Straub, Dean Koontz, Joe R. Lansdale, and Ramsey Campbell, among others. He has also edited several anthologies, most notably 'The Earth Stirs' (1996), 'Nightmares & Dreamscapes: Stories from the Dark Side' (1998) with Stephen King, and 'Shivers' (2007). As an author, Chizmar is best known for his short story collection 'Telegrams from the Dead' (1995) and the novella 'A Long December' (1994). His works often explore themes of fear, loss, and redemption within a suspenseful narrative. In addition to his literary pursuits, Chizmar is also a passionate advocate for independent publishing and supports emerging writers through Cemetery Dance. He continues to write, edit, and publish horror fiction that captivates readers with its dark, compelling narratives.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Fear is the price we pay for our imagination."

Richard Chizmar's quote "Fear is the price we pay for our imagination" suggests that the ability to imagine, to think creatively or conjure up scenarios beyond our immediate experience, often brings about fear as a natural response. This is because the unknown or unfamiliar can be frightening, and our minds have a tendency to project worst-case scenarios onto what we haven't yet experienced. In other words, fear is the consequence of the power of our imagination to envision possibilities beyond our comfort zone.


"Books have a power all their own: they can take you places you've never been and revisit places long forgotten."

This quote highlights the transformative power that books possess. They serve as portals to various experiences, geographical locations, and emotional landscapes, enabling readers to travel beyond the confines of their physical environment. Moreover, books can evoke memories of past experiences or help one reconnect with cherished recollections in a profound way, making them an essential tool for personal growth and exploration.


"Stories are like dreams: they live in the mind, and once we share them with others, they take on a life of their own."

This quote suggests that stories, much like dreams, originate from personal experiences or imaginative thought within an individual's mind. By sharing these stories with others, they transform into something larger than themselves, taking on a life of their own as they resonate with different people based on their unique perspectives and interpretations. Essentially, stories become universal vessels for human connection, understanding, and empathy.


"The scariest moment is always just before you start."

The quote emphasizes the universal human apprehension one may experience at the onset of a new endeavor or change, regardless of its nature or scale. This feeling, often characterized by fear or uncertainty, can serve as a barrier, but it's also an essential motivator for personal growth and progress. Overcoming this moment of doubt is crucial to embarking on adventures, tackling challenges, and realizing one's potential.


"There's nothing quite so satisfying as reading a really good book, knowing that it will stay with you long after the final page has been turned."

This quote by Richard Chizmar emphasizes the profound impact a truly great book can have on a reader. The satisfaction he refers to is not just from the enjoyment of the story, but also from the memories, thoughts, and emotions that linger long after the last page is turned. A good book has a way of staying with us, shaping our perspectives, enriching our understanding, and even influencing our lives in some way. In essence, Chizmar suggests that a remarkable book leaves an indelible mark on our souls, making it a memorable experience that lingers long after the reading is done.


My neighborhood was like 'The Wonder Years.' We played until 10 o'clock at night. We used to tell scary stories. I was the one scaring them. We used to play football by this place called the Myer's House. It was a big, spooky house with the gables; we'd hang out there and scare each other.

- Richard Chizmar

Play, Big, Hang, Play Football

Subtle horror is where you rarely see the blood and gore. The violent people are called splatter-punks, who prefer graphic, unrelenting, violent, fast-paced horror. I prefer horror stories with mysterious elements that are chock-full of suspense.

- Richard Chizmar

Horror, Violent, Stories, Fast-Paced

If I was a father, and my son told me he wanted to go out and be a publisher, I'd say, 'Go get a job.'

- Richard Chizmar

Father, Go, Say, Publisher

The first three issues of 'Cemetery Dance' were mainly horror, but now it's really a cross-genre magazine. It's all just snowballed.

- Richard Chizmar

Three, Horror, Issues, Cemetery

To be publishing Stephen King, to be a friend to Stephen, when he is absolutely what got me into this business, is a really neat thing and something I don't take for granted.

- Richard Chizmar

Business, King, Got, Take For Granted

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