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William Goldman Quotes

Powerful William Goldman for Daily Growth

About William Goldman

William Goldman (August 12, 1931 – November 16, 2018) was an American novelist, playwright, and screenwriter known for his witty dialogue, character-driven narratives, and ability to bridge the gap between literature and cinema. Born in Highbridge, New York, Goldman spent much of his childhood moving around with his family, eventually settling in Miami Beach, Florida. His love for storytelling began early as he read widely, from classics like Mark Twain's "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" to contemporary works like F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby." Goldman attended Swarthmore College and later Columbia University Law School but left both without a degree. He worked as a reporter for The Miami Herald before moving to Hollywood, where he found success in screenwriting. His breakthrough came with the screenplay for "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" (1969), which won him an Academy Award. Goldman is best known for his novel "The Princess Bride" (1973), a fairy tale adventure narrated by a fictional grandfather reading to his sick grandson, filled with humor, romance, and action. The book was later adapted into the beloved film of the same name in 1987. Other notable works include "Marathon Man" (1974) and "Adventures in the Screen Trade," a collection of essays about screenwriting. Throughout his career, Goldman received numerous awards, including two Oscars for Best Adapted Screenplay, and was inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame in 2013. His works continue to inspire writers, filmmakers, and readers alike. Despite his passing in 2018, Goldman's legacy as a master storyteller endures.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Nobody knows anything."

This quote by William Goldman emphasizes the unpredictable nature of success in Hollywood, but it can be applied to any field where trends and popular opinion change rapidly. It serves as a humble reminder that despite our best efforts to analyze and predict, the future is always uncertain, and often, things happen for reasons that cannot be easily explained or foreseen. This quote encourages us to remain adaptable and open-minded in the face of uncertainty.

"It's not a wagon ride to California."

This quote emphasizes that life is not an easy journey with predictable outcomes, like a leisurely wagon ride to California during the gold rush era. Instead, it suggests that life is more complex, challenging, and filled with uncertainties, much like navigating unknown territories without a clear path or destination. It's a reminder that success and happiness often require effort, resilience, and adaptability, rather than just following a predetermined plan.

"Trust in Allah, but tie your camel."

This quote suggests a balance between faith (trusting in God) and practicality (taking responsibility for one's actions). The act of tying the camel is an example of being prudent by taking necessary precautions, even when one has faith that all will be well. In essence, it encourages us to rely on our beliefs but also be mindful of the realities of the world and take action accordingly.

"We must always change, renew, rejuvenate ourselves; otherwise we harden."

This quote emphasizes the importance of continuous personal growth and adaptation in life. It suggests that stagnation leads to rigidity, whereas change, renewal, and rejuvenation keep us flexible, adaptable, and open to new experiences. In essence, it underscores the necessity for self-improvement and evolution as a means of maintaining vitality and resilience in the face of life's challenges.

"Sooner or later they are going to come for you."

This quote by William Goldman suggests that one should be prepared for adversity or confrontation, as it is inevitable that challenges will arise in life. It implies a reminder that regardless of when or how, difficulties will eventually present themselves, so being vigilant and ready is essential for personal resilience.

As far as the filmmaking process is concerned, stars are essentially worthless - and absolutely essential.

- William Goldman

Process, Worthless, Far, Essential

Yes, I am a failed playwright. I had three shows on Broadway by the time I was 30. They all flopped, and I fled.

- William Goldman

Yes, Broadway, By The Time, Playwright

One way an author dies a little each day is when his books go out of print.

- William Goldman

Go, Way, Author, Dies

Never argue with your wife about hostility when she's a certified Freudian.

- William Goldman

Wife, She, Never, Hostility

Life isn't fair. It's just fairer than death, that's all.

- William Goldman

Death, Fair, Than, Fairer

The easiest thing to do on earth is not write.

- William Goldman

Earth, Easiest, Thing, Easiest Thing

Being a screenwriter is not enough for a full creative life.

- William Goldman

Enough, Being, Screenwriter, Creative Life

There is one crucial rule that must be followed in all creative meetings. Never speak first. At least at the start, your job is to shut up.

- William Goldman

Shut, Crucial, Least, Followed

Life is pain, highness. Anyone who tells you differently is selling something.

- William Goldman

Pain, Differently, Tells, Selling

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