Rumer Godden Quotes

Powerful Rumer Godden for Daily Growth

About Rumer Godden

Rumer Godden (1907-1998) was a prolific English novelist, poet, playwright, and screenwriter, celebrated for her richly textured stories rooted in the realities of diverse cultures and the human condition. Born on April 19, 1907, in Bunny, Nottinghamshire, England, Godden spent her early childhood in India, a country that would profoundly influence her work. In 1910, Godden returned to England with her family but yearned for the exoticism and vibrancy of India. This longing was encapsulated in her seminal novel, "Black Narcissus" (1939), a tale of a group of Anglican nuns attempting to establish a convent high in the Himalayas. The book was adapted into an acclaimed film in 1947. Godden's writing career blossomed after she moved to a village in Suffolk with her husband, Ernest Chappell, in 1935. Here, she wrote several children's books, including "The Story of Holly and Ivy" (1958), which tells the story of two orphaned sisters who find warmth and love in each other. Throughout her career, Godden drew on her experiences living in India, France, and Switzerland to create stories that resonated universally. Her works often explored themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of human relationships. Notable titles include "An Episode of Sparrows" (1958), a tale of Indian villagers who find themselves caught up in political unrest, and "The River" (1946), a poignant exploration of a young English girl's coming-of-age in India. Rumer Godden passed away on October 12, 1998, leaving behind an indelible mark on the literary world with her evocative, multi-layered works that continue to captivate readers today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Life is a series of moments - some bad, some good, but all important."

Rumer Godden's quote emphasizes that life consists of a sequence of significant moments, both positive and negative. It underscores the importance of every experience we encounter, suggesting that each moment contributes to our personal growth and understanding of ourselves and the world around us. In essence, she encourages us to learn from all aspects of life, recognizing that every moment is valuable in shaping our lives' stories.


"The young are not interested in the past; it's the old who live in it."

This quote by Rumer Godden suggests that young people tend to focus more on the present and future, as they are creating their own experiences and shaping their lives. On the other hand, older individuals often reflect on past events, reminiscing about their life experiences. The quote is a gentle observation that highlights the contrasting perspectives between generations regarding time.


"To be happy it seems to me that one must first know oneself. To know oneself one must live alone, with no distractions and no company except one's own."

This quote by Rumer Godden emphasizes the importance of self-discovery for happiness. She suggests that true understanding and acceptance of oneself can only be achieved through solitude and introspection, without external distractions or social interactions. By living alone, one can focus on their thoughts, emotions, and values, allowing them to build a strong inner foundation and cultivate personal growth. This self-awareness serves as a vital step towards finding contentment and happiness in life.


"In every true romance there are periods of waiting, of suffering, of longing; and at last the meeting comes and in that moment the heart is filled with unspeakable joy."

This quote suggests that a genuine romantic relationship often requires patience, endurance, and emotional investment during challenging times of separation or unrequited feelings. However, when the couple eventually reunites, the reward is an overwhelming sense of joy that words cannot express. The theme underscores the idea that love involves growth through adversity, leading to a deeper connection when finally united.


"If you have loved deeply, life doesn't offer much solace."

This quote by Rumer Godden suggests that profound love can leave a lasting impact, making it challenging to find comfort or ease in life after the experience. Deep love involves emotional investment, vulnerability, and often, loss. When such love ends, whether through separation, death, or simply moving on, it may seem as if there is little solace or consolation to be found in ordinary experiences, as they pale in comparison to the intensity of the emotional connection that has been lost. However, the quote does not imply a sense of hopelessness or despair; rather, it acknowledges the profound effect deep love can have on one's life and emotions, even when it brings pain. In many cases, the memories of such love remain precious, serving as a reminder of what was once cherished and experienced deeply.


For a dyed-in-the-wool author, nothing is as dead as a book once it is written. She is rather like a cat whose kittens have grown up.

- Rumer Godden

Like, Rather, Author, Kittens

If books were Persian carpets, one would not look only at the outer side. because it is the stitch that makes a carpet wear, gives it its life and bloom.

- Rumer Godden

Side, Stitch, Outer, Bloom

The motto was 'Pax', but the word was set in a circle of thorns.

- Rumer Godden

Motto, Thorns, Set, Circle

The stitch of a book is its words.

- Rumer Godden

Book, Words, Stitch

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