Chances are, you were required to read F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby back in high school, but have you picked up any of his works since? If the answer is no, it might be time to change that! While picking up a book by an older "classic" writer can be a bit more intimidating than skimming a light-hearted rom-com book, you're sure to be able to uncover some amazing, hidden gem quotes in these novels! Read on to find out 10 of F. Scott Fitzgerald's best.
1. "And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer." -The Great Gatsby
So...where do I begin with this one? It's one of those quotes that everyone can relate to, and just reading Fitzgerald's words really invokes the feeling inspired by the beginning of summertime in the reader. Words are incredible.
2. "That is part of the beauty of all literature. You discover that your longings are universal longings, that you're not lonely and isolated from anyone. You belong." - Fitzgerald in conversation with Sheilah Graham circa 1937-1940
In case you were wondering why you should visit your local library more, this one about covers it. And it's so true. Part of what makes books and poetry so inspiring is that the words held in the pages you read often make you feel more connected to the world around you. Read on! Also, a fun fact: this is the only quote on this list not from one of F. Scott Fitzgerald's novels!
3. "I'm a slave to my emotions, to my likes, to my hatred of boredom, to most of my desires." -This Side of Paradise
Truth be told, this is my personal favorite. There's something so brutally honest (and so very human) about this character admitting that these things have such incredible power over him. This quote is poetic, to say the least.
4. "They're a rotten crowd...you're worth the whole damn bunch put together." -The Great Gatsby
Alright, so maybe I spoke too soon...this is my favorite quote. Not only is this quote smack in the middle of what is perhaps the most memorable scene in the book (in my humble opinion), it's just probably one of the best compliments given in literary history.
5. "I don't want just words. If that's all you have for me, you'd better go." -The Beautiful and Damned
I think this quote speaks for itself. Wow. Wow. Wow.
6. "I was within and without, simultaneously enchanted and repelled by the inexhaustible variety of life." -The Great Gatsby
Gatsby is a classic for a reason, and this quote pretty much summarizes why. Nothing else captures the opulence and wastefulness of the Roaring Twenties quite like Fitzgerald. Take a moment to really think about this one.
7. "No, sir, the girl really worth having won't wait for anybody." -This Side of Paradise
I think about this quote a lot, actually. It's an extremely articulate reminder that a woman that really respects herself won't wait around for a man's approval; she'll be independent and strong enough to realize that she herself is enough and that she deserves more than someone that doesn't view her as more than a "maybe." After all, the right man would realize how amazing she is instantly!
8. "So we'll just let things take their course, and never be sorry." -Benediction
A wonderful reminder to let the events of your life unfold as they shall, embrace your life to the fullest, and enjoy the ride.
9. "I wasn't actually in love, but I felt a sort of tender curiosity." -The Great Gatsby
Everyone can relate to this feeling: that moment when you're getting to know someone better and feel yourself falling, but not quite in love yet. One of the best feelings in the entire world, if you ask me. And one that Fitzgerald puts exceptionally eloquently.
10. "'Whenever you feel like criticizing any one...just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had.'" -The Great Gatsby
Inspiring? Check. Insightful? Check. This quote is for the books, too.
Be sure to check out Fitzgerald's writing for yourself and see if you can acquire any other wonderful quotes by this terrific author! Happy reading!
