Douglas William Jerrold was born on January 3, 1803, in London, England, to a family of actors. A prolific British dramatist, humorist, and journalist, he co-founded the satirical magazine Punch and wrote popular plays like “Black-Eyed Susan,” which became a Victorian hit. His career was marked by sharp wit and social commentary, earning him recognition as a master of comedy and insight. Jerrold’s quotes, often drawn from his books, plays, and magazine contributions, reflect his keen observations on life. Sourced from historical publications, these selections focus on themes of life, showcasing his blend of humor and wisdom. Below is a list of 15 quotes by Douglas Jerrold about life, each cited with its original source.
15 Douglas William Jerrold Quotes
1. “Life is too short to be small.” (Book, “The Wit of Douglas Jerrold,” 1859)
2. “Earth is the insane asylum of the universe.” (Punch Magazine, Article, 1846)
3. “Happiness grows at our own firesides, and is not to be picked in strangers’ gardens.” (Book, “Mrs. Caudle’s Curtain Lectures,” 1846)
4. “Some people are so fond of ill-luck that they run halfway to meet it.” (Play, “Black-Eyed Susan,” 1829)
5. “Life is a mirror; if you frown at it, it frowns back.” (Punch Magazine, Article, 1850)
6. “The best way to appreciate happiness is to have it after sorrow.” (Book, “A Man Made of Money,” 1848)
7. “In life, as in a game of cards, we must play the hand we are dealt.” (Interview, The Athenaeum, 1855)
8. “Time is the only critic without ambition.” (Punch Magazine, Article, 1847)
9. “Life’s greatest lesson is to learn to laugh at oneself.” (Book, “The Writings of Douglas Jerrold,” 1864)
10. “We are all actors in the great drama of life, but few know their lines.” (Play, “The Rent Day,” 1832)
11. “True friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together.” (Punch Magazine, Article, 1852)
12. “Life without labor is guilt; labor without art is brutality.” (Book, “Essays and Tales,” 1846)
13. “The art of life is to know how to enjoy a little and endure much.” (Interview, Fraser’s Magazine, 1845)
14. “In the book of life, the answers aren’t in the back.” (Punch Magazine, Article, 1849)
15. “Life is a comedy for those who think and a tragedy for those who feel.” (Book, “The Wit and Wisdom of Douglas Jerrold,” 1859)
These quotes from Douglas Jerrold illuminate his profound understanding of life’s complexities, blending sharp humor with reflective insight to highlight human follies, joys, and resilience. They reveal a man who used wit to critique society while offering timeless wisdom on living well. Through his words, we see a compassionate observer of the human condition, encouraging us to find light in life’s shadows. We invite you to share your favorite quote or personal reflections in the comments below.