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William Plomer Quotes

Powerful William Plomer for Daily Growth

About William Plomer

William Plomer (1903-1973) was a renowned British author, editor, and publisher, best known for his contributions to literature, particularly in the field of children's books. Born on August 28, 1903, in Durban, South Africa, Plomer spent his early years under the influence of his parents, both of whom were writers. His father, Richard Henry Plomer, was a popular novelist and poet, while his mother, Edith Mary (Sutcliffe) Plomer, wrote children's stories. In 1920, at the age of 17, Plomer moved to England and studied at King's College, Cambridge, where he edited the university literary magazine Granta. His first major work, "The Voyage of Sinbad," was published in 1931, a collection of stories based on the Arabian Nights. This book showcased his unique storytelling ability and love for imaginative tales. Plomer's career as an editor began at Faber & Faber publishers, where he worked with some of the most influential authors of the time, including T.S. Eliot, James Joyce, and Dylan Thomas. In 1936, he published "The Enchanted Forest and Other Stories," a collection that won wide acclaim. This book, along with his later works such as "A Fairy Year" (1940) and "The Wonderful Tip" (1950), made him one of the leading figures in the world of children's literature. Plomer was also a prolific traveler, often drawing inspiration from his journeys. He served as the British Council's Director of Overseas Literary Relations and spent significant time in South America, particularly Brazil, where he developed a deep appreciation for Brazilian culture and language. William Plomer passed away on August 20, 1973, leaving behind a rich literary legacy that continues to captivate readers of all ages. His life and work serve as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of imaginative tales.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"We can make our plans, but the Creator of the stars has his own."

This quote emphasizes the importance of human planning and decision-making, while acknowledging that ultimately, fate or higher powers may have their own course for our lives. It suggests a balance between personal ambition and acceptance of what is beyond our control, encouraging us to act decisively while remaining open to the unexpected twists and turns life may bring.

"The young cannot know how age will mellow what they think is unbearable now."

This quote by William Plomer suggests that youth, with its intense emotions and strong convictions, often struggles under the weight of experiences deemed unbearable at the time. However, as one grows older (ages or 'mellows'), they come to understand these trials differently, finding a sense of peace or acceptance about them, realizing that what seemed insurmountable in youth was not as unbearable as initially thought.

"To live in hope is to live on the edge of a cliff with no fear of falling."

This quote suggests that having hope means living with courage, not being afraid of uncertainty or potential failure, but rather embracing it as part of life's journey. It implies a positive outlook towards the future despite the risks involved, symbolized by standing on the edge of a cliff without fear of falling, because one is driven by the power and belief in that hope.

"It's the hope that kills you, not the dream."

This quote suggests that it is not the pursuit or holding onto an ideal (the dream) that causes harm, but rather the expectation or belief that this dream will definitely come true (hope). Unrealistic hopes can lead to disappointment when they are not met, causing emotional distress. The implication here is that one should pursue dreams with a realistic outlook and be resilient in the face of adversity instead of clinging to the idea that everything will turn out as hoped for.

"The secret of genius is to carry the hurt in your heart and the fire in your soul."

This quote by William Plomer suggests that true genius arises from a combination of emotional pain (carrying the hurt) and deep-seated passion or motivation (the fire). The "hurt" represents personal struggles, challenges, or experiences that an individual carries within them, which can fuel their creative process and drive them to achieve great things. The "fire," on the other hand, symbolizes the powerful, unquenchable passion or motivation that propels the individual forward in pursuit of their goals, often resulting in exceptional work or discoveries. In essence, the quote encapsulates the idea that true genius is born from a unique blend of personal suffering and intense ambition.

It is the function of creative man to perceive and to connect the seemingly unconnected.

- William Plomer

Man, Function, Seemingly, Perceive

Creativity is the power to connect the seemingly unconnected.

- William Plomer

Creativity, Power, Seemingly, Connect

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