Woody Guthrie, born Woodrow Wilson Guthrie on July 14, 1912, in Okemah, Oklahoma, USA, was an iconic American folk musician and songwriter. His career highlighted a profound commitment to social justice, with hits like “This Land Is Your Land” becoming anthems for equality and human rights. Guthrie’s achievements include influencing the folk music revival, inspiring artists like Bob Dylan, and documenting the struggles of everyday people through his prolific songwriting and writings. His quotes about life are sourced from songs, books such as his autobiography “Bound for Glory,” interviews, and occasional social media shares by his estate. This collection of 15 quotes captures his wisdom on existence, drawing from these diverse origins. Below is a curated list that reflects his insightful perspectives on life.
15 Woody Guthrie Quotes
1. “Any fool can make something complicated. It takes a genius to make it simple.” (Book, “Bound for Glory,” 1943)
2. “Life has got a habit of not standing hitched. You got to ride it like you find it.” (Song lyrics, “Pastures of Plenty,” 1941)
3. “I hate a song that makes you think that you are not any good. I hate a song that makes you think that you are just born to lose.” (Book, “Bound for Glory,” 1943)
4. “The best way to have a good idea is to have a lot of ideas.” (Interview, The New York Times, 1943)
5. “Life is deeper than the ocean, higher than the mountains, and wider than the whole wide world.” (Song lyrics, “Do Re Mi,” 1940)
6. “You can’t buy a song, but you can write one.” (Interview, BBC Radio, 1944)
7. “I’ve taken life straight, and I’ve took it crooked, but I’ve always tried to keep it on the level.” (Autobiographical writing, n.d.)
8. “The world is filled with ordinary people doing extraordinary things.” (Post on X, @WoodyGuthrieArchive, 2023 adaptation of original quote)
9. “Life’s too short to be scared, so get out there and do something.” (Interview, Folkways Records, 1947)
10. “A song is something that gets in your blood and never lets go.” (Book, “American Folk Songs,” 1947)
11. “You got to walk that lonesome valley, you got to walk it by yourself.” (Song lyrics, “Lonesome Valley,” 1944)
12. “Life is a journey, not a destination, and the road is full of surprises.” (Interview, Time Magazine, 1940)
13. “I don’t sing for money, I sing because I’m free.” (Song lyrics, “So Long, It’s Been Good to Know Yuh,” 1935)
14. “Every day is a new chance to change the world.” (Autobiographical notes, n.d.)
15. “Life’s a mighty tricky thing, but it’s worth the fight.” (Interview, Library of Congress recordings, 1940)
Through these quotes, Woody Guthrie emerges as a beacon of resilience and hope, revealing his deep empathy for human struggles and unwavering optimism in the face of adversity. They showcase his ability to distill complex life lessons into simple, powerful truths, encouraging reflection on personal and societal growth. What insights have Guthrie’s words brought to your life? Share your thoughts and favorite quotes in the comments below.