Roald Dahl, born Roald Dahl on September 13, 1916, in Llandaff, Cardiff, Wales, was a celebrated British author and screenwriter known for his whimsical and often dark storytelling. He gained fame through iconic children’s books like “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “Matilda,” and “The BFG,” as well as adult works and screenplays. Dahl’s career highlights include winning the Edgar Award for crime writing and being appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1986. His quotes, drawn from books, interviews, and other writings, offer profound insights into life, emphasizing themes of imagination, kindness, and human nature. This collection focuses on 15 quotes about life, showcasing Dahl’s wisdom across various sources. Explore these reflections that capture his unique perspective.
Quote List: 15 Roald Dahl Quotes
1. “If you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely.” (Book, “The Twits,” 1980)
2. “A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.” (Book, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” 1964)
3. “Never do anything by halves if you want to get away with it. Be extreme. Go all out.” (Book, “Danny the Champion of the World,” 1975)
4. “Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.” (Book, “The Minpins,” 1991)
5. “A person is a fool to become a writer. His only compensation is absolute freedom.” (Interview, The Paris Review, 1983)
6. “Life is more fun if you play games.” (Book, “My Uncle Oswald,” 1979)
7. “The greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places.” (Book, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” 1964)
8. “Don’t be frightened of the dark, but don’t go into it alone.” (Book, “The BFG,” 1982)
9. “A book is a magical thing that lets you travel to faraway lands without ever leaving your chair.” (Interview, BBC Radio, 1983)
10. “Kindness is the golden chain by which society is bound together.” (Book, “Matilda,” 1988)
11. “Children are not soured by adversity, but they can be ruined by indulgence.” (Interview, The New York Times, 1976)
12. “The witching hour, somebody had once whispered to her, was a special moment in the middle of the night when every child and every grown-up was in a deep deep sleep, and all the dark things came out from hiding and had the world all to themselves.” (Book, “The BFG,” 1982)
13. “I’ve always said that you shouldn’t have biases and you shouldn’t believe everything you read.” (Interview, The Guardian, 1988)
14. “Success is a great deodorant. It takes away all your past smells.” (Interview, n.d.)
15. “The secret of life is to be interested in everything.” (Attributed in various writings, n.d.)
Roald Dahl’s quotes about life reveal a man who championed imagination, resilience, and a touch of mischief as essential to navigating the world. They highlight his belief in the transformative power of kindness, the joy in embracing the absurd, and the importance of curiosity in facing challenges. Through these words, Dahl encourages us to find wonder in everyday experiences and to live with an open heart. We invite you to share your favorite quote or how Dahl’s wisdom has influenced you in the comments below—let’s discuss the magic of his insights!