Ernst Toller Quotes

A collection of quotes by Ernst Toller.

Ernst Toller (1893-1939) was a German playwright, poet, and political activist. Born in Poland, he joined the German Workers' Youth Organization and later became a prominent figure in the German Expressionist movement. During World War I, Toller served as a soldier and was deeply affected by the horrors of war. He advocated for radical social change and was a co-founder of the German Communist Party. Toller's plays often explored themes of political and social upheaval, with his most famous work being "Hoppla, We're Alive!" Unfortunately, his life ended tragically when he committed suicide in exile.

And suddenly, like light in darkness, the real truth broke i

And suddenly, like light in darkness, the real truth broke in upon me; the simple fact of Man, which I had forgotten, which had lain deep buried and out of sight; the idea of community, of unity.

Ernst Toller

Truth Man Unity Light Community

Slogans which deafened us so that we could not hear the trut

Slogans which deafened us so that we could not hear the truth.

Ernst Toller

Truth

Most people have no imagination. If they could imagine the s

Most people have no imagination. If they could imagine the sufferings of others, they would not make them suffer so. What separated a German mother from a French mother?

Ernst Toller

Imagination

Gradually I became aware of details: a company of French sol

Gradually I became aware of details: a company of French soldiers was marching through the streets of the town. They broke formation, and went in single file along the communication trench leading to the front line. Another group followed them.

Ernst Toller

Communication