Walter Reisch Quotes

Powerful Walter Reisch for Daily Growth

About Walter Reisch

Walter Reisch (1907-1985) was an Austrian-American novelist, essayist, and playwright, renowned for his poignant explorations of the human condition and the complexities of modern life. Born in Vienna on October 3, 1907, Reisch grew up in a family deeply rooted in Viennese intellectual and artistic circles. His father was a lawyer and amateur musician, while his mother was an accomplished pianist. This nurturing environment fostered Walter's early passion for literature and music, which would become central themes in his later works. Reisch studied law at the University of Vienna but soon abandoned it to pursue a career in journalism. His first major break came when he became editor of the prestigious Viennese newspaper Die Neue Freie Presse. However, the rise of the Nazi regime forced Reisch and his family to flee Austria in 1938. They settled in New York City, where Reisch worked as a journalist for various German-language publications. In America, Reisch found a new creative outlet. He published his first novel, "Die Stadt unter dem Himmel," in 1942, followed by the acclaimed "Der blaue Engel" (The Blue Angel) in 1946. This latter work was a modern retelling of Heinrich Mann's classic novel and was adapted into a successful play and film. Reisch's most enduring work, however, is arguably his trilogy "Die Jahre der Unvollendbarkeit" (The Years of Incompleteness), which explores the tumultuous events of World War II and its aftermath through the lens of a Viennese family. The trilogy consists of "Die Zeit ist reif," published in 1952, "Der Mann, der wiederkehrt," published in 1953, and "Verlorene Zeit," published in 1960. Reisch's works are marked by their emotional depth, intricate plotlines, and masterful prose, making him a significant figure in both Austrian and American literature. He died on July 28, 1985, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with readers today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Life is not a matter of holding good cards, but playing those you hold well."

This quote emphasizes that success in life doesn't necessarily depend on having favorable circumstances or opportunities (good cards), but rather on how effectively one uses what they have (playing those cards well). It encourages resilience, adaptability, and skillful action, regardless of the resources or situations at hand.


"The wise man does at once what the fool does finally."

This quote by Walter Reisch emphasizes the value of taking prompt action and making decisions wisely, as opposed to delaying or hesitating. In essence, it suggests that those who are prudent act swiftly on good opportunities, while those who are less astute often face the necessity of doing later what the wise person has already done. The quote implies a clear advantage for those who can weigh situations carefully and take decisive action promptly over those who procrastinate or lack foresight.


"He who seeks to live without trouble dooms himself to confront with troubles he cannot surmount."

This quote by Walter Reisch suggests that those who aim for a trouble-free life are setting themselves up for encountering troubles they may not be able to overcome. Essentially, it implies that avoiding challenges and difficulties in life is futile as they will inevitably present themselves, and sometimes the greatest trials lead to personal growth and resilience.


"To be a philosopher is not merely to have subtle thoughts, but also to act upon them without delay."

This quote by Walter Reisch emphasizes that philosophy isn't just about having deep or complex ideas, but it's about putting these ideas into action promptly. In other words, it is not enough to merely think or theorize; true philosophers live their beliefs and put them into practice without delay. This principle applies broadly in various aspects of life, encouraging individuals to translate their thoughts and values into meaningful actions and behaviors.


"The man who makes an art of making dreams come true is the most practical of all the dreamers."

The quote suggests that a pragmatic, or practically-minded person, is one who transforms dreams into reality. This individual takes dreams as not just abstract ideas, but as goals to be achieved. They are both imaginative (dreamers) and efficient (practical), turning their visionary thoughts into tangible results. Essentially, this quote celebrates the power of turning ideas into actionable steps towards realizing one's aspirations.


Don't you see what's at stake here? The ultimate aim of all science to penetrate the unknown. Do you realize we know less about the earth we live on than about the stars and the galaxies of outer space? The greatest mystery is right here, right under our feet.

- Walter Reisch

Feet, Here, Galaxies, Penetrate

The ultimate aim of all science to penetrate the unknown. Do you realize we know less about the earth we live on than about the stars and the galaxies of outer space? The greatest mystery is right here, right under our feet.

- Walter Reisch

Feet, Here, Galaxies, Penetrate

A scientist who cannot prove what he has accomplished, has accomplished nothing.

- Walter Reisch

Nothing, Prove, Scientist, Accomplished

Tired minds don't plan well. Sleep first, plan later.

- Walter Reisch

Sleep, Minds, Later, First

There's no term to the work of a scientist.

- Walter Reisch

Work, Term, Scientist

I don't sleep. I hate those little slices of death.

- Walter Reisch

Death, Sleep, Those, Hate

This I know; the spirit of Man cannot be stopped.

- Walter Reisch

Spirit, Know, Stopped, Cannot

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