Alan Bennett Quotes, born May 9, 1934, in Leeds, England, is an English playwright, author, actor, and screenwriter renowned for his witty, poignant explorations of British life. His works include plays like The History Boys (2004), The Madness of George III (1991), and the monologue series Talking Heads (1988, 1998). A master of blending humor with social commentary, Bennett has won multiple awards, including a Tony Award and BAFTA. These 15 quotes—sourced from his plays, books, interviews, and public statements—reflect his insights on life, literature, and human nature, capturing his sharp and compassionate spirit.
15 Alan Bennett Quotes
- “The best moments in reading are when you come across something—a thought, a feeling, a way of looking at things—which you had thought special and particular to you. Now here it is, set down by someone else.” (The History Boys, 2004)
- “Life is generally something that happens elsewhere.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “We started off trying to set up a small anarchist community, but people wouldn’t obey the rules.” (Getting On, 1972)
- “Books are not about passing time. They’re about other lives. Other worlds.” (The Uncommon Reader, 2007)
- “You don’t put your life into your books, you find it there.” (The Uncommon Reader, 2007)
- “Children always assume the sexual lives of their parents come to a grinding halt at their conception.” (Interview, AZQuotes, n.d.)
- “The bits I most remember about my school days are those that took place outside the classroom, as we were taken on countless theatre visits and trips to places of interest.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “Sometimes there is no next time, no time-outs, no second chances. Sometimes it’s now or never.” (Interview, QuoteFancy, n.d.)
- “A book is a device to ignite the imagination.” (The Uncommon Reader, 2007)
- “If you think squash is a competitive activity, try flower arranging.” (Interview, BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “History is a commentary on the various and continuing incapabilities of men. What is history? History is women following behind with the bucket.” (The History Boys, 2004)
- “I’m all in favour of free expression provided it’s kept rigidly in check.” (Forty Years On, 1969)
- “One reads for pleasure. It is not a public duty.” (The Uncommon Reader, 2007)
- “The appeal of reading, she thought, lay in its indifference: there was something undeferring about literature.” (The Uncommon Reader, 2007)
- “Life is like a box of chocolates: you never know what you’re going to get, but it’s likely to be disappointing.” (Interview, The Guardian, 2014)
Alan Bennett’s quotes are a delightful blend of wit, wisdom, and wry observation, inspiring readers and dreamers to find joy in books and question the world with humor. Which one’s got you ready to pick up a book or laugh at life’s absurdities? Drop it in the comments and keep Bennett’s literary legacy shining!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
Email – business@mylittledesire.com
