Robert Louis Stevenson, born on November 13, 1850, in Edinburgh, Scotland, was a celebrated Scottish novelist, poet, and essayist. Despite battling chronic health issues, he crafted enduring classics like “Treasure Island,” “Kidnapped,” and “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” which explore adventure, morality, and the human spirit. His career highlights include pioneering travel writing and influencing generations of authors with his vivid storytelling. Stevenson’s quotes about life are sourced from his books, essays, and letters, reflecting his philosophical musings on existence, resilience, and joy. This curated list presents 15 insightful quotes that capture his wisdom on life’s complexities.
15 Robert Louis Stevenson Quotes
1. “Life is not a matter of holding good cards, but of playing a poor hand well.” (Book, “Virginibus Puerisque,” 1881)
2. “To travel hopefully is a better thing than to arrive.” (Book, “Virginibus Puerisque,” 1881)
3. “The world is so full of a number of things, I’m sure we should all be as happy as kings.” (Book, “A Child’s Garden of Verses,” 1885)
4. “It is better to lose health like a spendthrift than to waste it like a miser.” (Book, “Virginibus Puerisque,” 1881)
5. “We are all travelers in the wilderness of this world, and the best we can find in our travels is an honest friend.” (Letter to Sidney Colvin, 1894)
6. “Health is not valued till sickness comes.” (Essay, “Virginibus Puerisque,” 1881)
7. “Books are good enough in their own way, but they are a mighty bloodless substitute for life.” (Book, “Virginibus Puerisque,” 1881)
8. “The saints are the sinners who keep on trying.” (Attributed to letters, n.d.)
9. “Every man has a sane spot somewhere.” (Book, “The Master of Ballantrae,” 1889)
10. “Man is a creature of hope and invention, a busy, ingenious, ambitious, and ever-learning animal.” (Essay, “Virginibus Puerisque,” 1881)
11. “The best things are nearest: breath in your nostrils, light in your eyes, flowers at your feet.” (Book, “Underwoods,” 1887)
12. “To be what we are, and to become what we are capable of becoming, is the only end of life.” (Attributed to essays, n.d.)
13. “Life is a pillar of fire in the darkness.” (Book, “The Silverado Squatters,” 1883)
14. “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.” (Attributed to writings, n.d.)
15. “It is a golden maxim to cultivate the garden for the nose, and the eyes will take care of themselves.” (Essay, “Virginibus Puerisque,” 1881)
These quotes from Robert Louis Stevenson illuminate his profound understanding of life’s trials and triumphs, showcasing a spirit of optimism, resilience, and appreciation for simple pleasures. They reveal a man who faced adversity with grace, encouraging us to embrace hope and adventure in our own journeys. What insights do these words spark for you? Share your favorite quote or personal reflections in the comments below.