Robert Quillen Quotes

Powerful Robert Quillen for Daily Growth

About Robert Quillen

Robert Quillen (1895-1948), an American humorist and writer, was born on May 8, 1895, in the rural town of Eaton Rapids, Michigan. His early years were spent surrounded by nature, which would later become a significant influence in his work. Quillen's father, George Washington Quillen, was a farmer and a violinist, while his mother, Almeda Jane Dewitt, was a school teacher. The family moved to Indianapolis when Robert was nine years old, where he attended Shortridge High School. It was here that he began writing for the school newspaper, showcasing an early aptitude for humor and storytelling. After high school, Quillen attended Indiana University but did not graduate. Instead, he found work as a reporter for the Indianapolis Star. In 1920, he moved to Chicago and worked for various newspapers before joining the staff of the Chicago Tribune in 1934. Quillen's first book, "Bless This Ivy," was published in 1927 and quickly became a best-seller. The collection of essays showcased Quillen's unique blend of humor, sentimentality, and keen observation of human nature. His other major works include "More Bless This Ivy" (1930), "The Lone Pine Club" (1938), and "Cousin to the King" (1946). Quillen's humor was rooted in his Midwestern upbringing and his ability to find the absurdity in everyday life. He was known for his wit, wisdom, and warmth, and his work continues to resonate with readers today. Quillen died on April 12, 1948, at the age of 52. His legacy lives on through his timeless essays and stories that continue to entertain and inspire generations.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"A good compromise is a place where everybody hates a little."

Robert Quillen's quote implies that a compromise, to be successful, should balance the needs or desires of all parties involved, but no one will be fully satisfied. This is because a true compromise requires some level of concession or sacrifice from each party, which may not align perfectly with their initial expectations or goals. However, it's essential in situations where agreement and understanding between conflicting sides are crucial for moving forward harmoniously.


"When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you, till it seems as though you could not hang on a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the time when the tide will turn."

This quote by Robert Quinney encourages persistence in the face of adversity. It suggests that during challenging times, when all seems lost, one should not lose hope but rather hold on, as it's at those moments that change is most likely to occur and circumstances will eventually improve. The essence of this quote is resilience and optimism, encouraging individuals to persevere through difficulties in order to overcome them.


"You can't keep a good man down."

The saying "You can't keep a good man down" is an expression that highlights resilience, determination, and an indomitable spirit. It suggests that if a person possesses strong character and moral integrity (a 'good man'), they will continue to rise no matter how many obstacles or setbacks they face in life. This quote inspires optimism as it implies that adversity can only momentarily hold back such individuals, who ultimately will find a way to recover, persevere, and succeed.


"Life is a fine thing, if you are a fish."

This quote humorously suggests that life is enjoyable and fulfilling only if one is content with their current circumstances or state of being, just as a fish might find happiness in the water, unaware of land or other potential experiences beyond its immediate environment. It can be interpreted as a reminder to appreciate the present moment and find joy in our own unique situations, rather than constantly yearning for something more or different.


"Success seems to be connected with action, rather than with dreams of possible success."

This quote suggests that achieving success in life is more closely tied to taking action towards one's goals and aspirations, rather than just daydreaming about what might happen if one were successful. It encourages the reader to be proactive and take steps towards their desired outcomes, as opposed to passively waiting for success to come to them. In essence, it underscores the importance of making things happen through effort and determination.


Discussion is an exchange of knowledge; an argument an exchange of ignorance.

- Robert Quillen

Ignorance, Anger, Exchange, Argument

If we wish to make a new world we have the material ready. The first one, too, was made out of chaos.

- Robert Quillen

Science, Chaos, New, New World

If there be anything that can be called genius, it consists chiefly in ability to give that attention to a subject which keeps it steadily in the mind, till we have surveyed it accurately on all sides.

- Robert Quillen

Mind, Give, Which, Steadily

Great art is never produced for its own sake. It is too difficult to be worth the effort.

- Robert Quillen

Art, Never, Too, Produced

There are glimpses of heaven to us in every act, or thought, or word, that raises us above ourselves.

- Robert Quillen

Inspirational, Thought, Act, Raises

As we grow older, our bodies get shorter and our anecdotes longer.

- Robert Quillen

Age, Grow, Longer, Anecdotes

Acting is not being emotional, but being able to express emotion.

- Robert Quillen

Emotional, Express, Able, Emotion

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.