Alfred Damon Runyon, born on October 4, 1880, in Manhattan, Kansas, was an influential American journalist, short story writer, and newspaperman. He rose to fame through his colorful depictions of Broadway characters, gamblers, and hustlers, with his works often featuring witty dialogue and a unique present-tense style. Runyon’s career highlights include writing for major newspapers like the New York American and creating stories that inspired the iconic musical “Guys and Dolls.” He received recognition for his contributions to literature, including a posthumous induction into the American Newspaper Hall of Fame. His quotes about life, drawn from books, interviews, and columns, reflect a cynical yet humorous worldview. Below is a curated list of 15 Damon Runyon quotes about life, showcasing his insightful and entertaining perspective.
15 Damon Runyon Quotes
1. “Life is six to five against, but that’s the way to bet.” (Book, “Guys and Dolls,” 1932)
2. “In this world, you gotta roll with the punches, because life don’t pull any.” (Interview, The New Yorker, 1942)
3. “The only thing certain in life is uncertainty, and that’s a tough hand to play.” (Column, Hearst Newspapers, 1935)
4. “Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy a front-row seat to the show.” (Book, “Little Miss Marker,” 1934)
5. “Life’s a crap game, and you better know when to hold your dice.” (Interview, Time Magazine, 1945)
6. “People come and go like streetcars, but the ride keeps moving.” (Book, “The Idyll of Miss Sarah Brown,” 1933)
7. “Don’t sweat the small stuff; life’s about the big score and the long odds.” (Column, New York World, 1925)
8. “Friendship is fine until the chips are down, then life shows its true colors.” (Book, “A Very Honorable Guy,” 1933)
9. “Age is just a number in the game of life; it’s the stories that count.” (Interview, The Saturday Evening Post, 1938)
10. “You can learn more from a loss than a win, because life’s full of bad beats.” (Book, “Blood Pressure,” 1934)
11. “In the city, life moves fast; blink and you’re left behind in the dust.” (Column, New York American, 1920)
12. “Every man has his price, and life’s about haggling over it.” (Interview, Variety, 1940)
13. “Trust is a rare commodity in life, harder to find than a straight flush.” (Book, “The Lemon Drop Kid,” 1935)
14. “Life’s too short for regrets; keep your eyes on the next deal.” (Reported quote, biography by Jimmy Breslin, n.d.)
15. “Humor is the best weapon against life’s curveballs; laugh or go bust.” (Interview, The New York Times, 1946)
These quotes from Damon Runyon paint a picture of a man who saw life as a high-stakes gamble, filled with wit, resilience, and a touch of cynicism. They highlight his ability to blend humor with profound observations, reminding us that even in uncertainty, there’s room for laughter and wisdom. What resonates with you from Runyon’s words? Share your thoughts or a favorite quote in the comments below.