Robert Bolt Quotes

A collection of quotes by Robert Bolt.

Robert Bolt (1924-1995) was an English playwright and screenwriter, best known for his historical dramas. Born in Sale, Cheshire, England, Bolt developed an interest in writing and theater from an early age. After serving in the Royal Air Force during World War II, he studied at Manchester University and began writing for radio and television.

Bolt achieved tremendous success with his play "A Man for All Seasons," first performed in 1960. Based on the life of Sir Thomas More, the play explored themes of morality, conscience, and the clash between personal beliefs and political authority. It received critical acclaim and won numerous awards, including the Tony Award for Best Play in 1962 and the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay in 1966.

In addition to "A Man for All Seasons," Bolt wrote other notable plays such as "Vivat! Vivat Regina!" and "State of Revolution." He also made a significant contribution to cinema, adapting his own plays and writing screenplays for films like "Lawrence of Arabia" (1962), "Doctor Zhivago" (1965), and "The Mission" (1986). Bolt's screenplays often tackled historical and political subjects, displaying his talent for crafting gripping narratives and complex characters.

Robert Bolt's work continues to be celebrated for its insightful exploration of themes, compelling dialogue, and meticulous attention to historical detail. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a commitment to storytelling that combined intellectual depth with emotional resonance. Bolt's contributions to theater and cinema have left a lasting legacy, impacting audiences and inspiring future generations of writers and filmmakers.

Even at our birth, death does but stand aside a little. And

Even at our birth, death does but stand aside a little. And every day he looks towards us and muses somewhat to himself whether that day or the next he will draw nigh.

Robert Bolt

Death

It profits a man nothing to give his soul for the whole worl

It profits a man nothing to give his soul for the whole world... but for Wales!

Robert Bolt

Soul

When a man takes an oath...,he's holding his ownself in his

When a man takes an oath...,he's holding his ownself in his own hands. Like water. And if he opens his fingers then- he needn't hope to find himself again.

Robert Bolt

Promises

We speak of being anchored to our principles. But if the wea

We speak of being anchored to our principles. But if the weather turns nasty you up with an anchor and let it down where there's less wind, and the fishing's better.

Robert Bolt

Faith

The law is not a light for you or any man to see by; the law

The law is not a light for you or any man to see by; the law is not an instrument of any kind. The law is a causeway upon which so long as he keeps to it a citizen may walk safely.

Robert Bolt


When statesmen forsake their own private conscience for the

When statesmen forsake their own private conscience for the sake of their public duties they lead their country by a short route to chaos.

Robert Bolt


Roper:So now youd give the Devil benefit of law!Sir Thomas M

Roper:So now youd give the Devil benefit of law!Sir Thomas More:Yes. What would you do? Cut a great road through the law to get after the Devil? Yes, Id give the Devil benefit of law, for my own safetys sake.

Robert Bolt