Damon Runyon Quotes

A collection of quotes by Damon Runyon.

Damon Runyon (1884-1946) was an American journalist and writer renowned for his colorful and humorous stories about the New York City underworld during the early 20th century. He started his career as a sportswriter but gained fame for his fictional characters that came to life in his short stories. Known for their distinctive language and unique personalities, these characters were often based on real-life individuals Runyon encountered during his time as a reporter. Runyon's works, including "Guys and Dolls," have left an enduring mark on American literature and continue to be celebrated for their wit and authenticity.

You can become a winner only if you are willing to walk over

You can become a winner only if you are willing to walk over the edge.

Damon Runyon

Winning Winners

I came to the conclusion long ago that all life is six to fi

I came to the conclusion long ago that all life is six to five against.

Damon Runyon

Gambling (gaming)

One of these days in your travels, a guy is going to come up

One of these days in your travels, a guy is going to come up to you and show you a nice brand-new deck of cards on which the seal is not yet broken, and this guy is going to offer to bet you that he can make the Jack of Spades jump out of the deck and squirt cider in your ear. But, son, do not bet this man, for as sure as you are standing there, you are going to end up with an earful of cider.

Damon Runyon

Travel

The race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the s

The race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, but that is the way to bet.

Damon Runyon

Gambling (gaming)