Harlan Ellison Quotes

A collection of quotes by Harlan Ellison.

Harlan Ellison (1934-2018) was an American writer known for his prolific and influential career in science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction. With a distinctive and often controversial writing style, Ellison authored numerous award-winning short stories, novels, and screenplays. His notable works include "I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream" and "A Boy and His Dog." Ellison received multiple accolades, including multiple Hugo, Nebula, and Edgar Awards, showcasing his immense talent and contribution to the genre. His impactful and thought-provoking storytelling continues to inspire and captivate readers even after his passing.

I know that pain is the most important thing in the universe

I know that pain is the most important thing in the universes. Greater than survival, greater than love, greater even than the beauty it brings about. For without pain, there can be no pleasure. Without sadness, there can be no happiness. Without misery there can be no beauty. And without these, life is endless, hopeless, doomed and damned. Adult. You have become adult.

It is not merely enough to love literature if one wishes to

It is not merely enough to love literature if one wishes to spend one's life as a writer. It is a dangerous undertaking on the most primitive level. For, it seems to me, the act of writing with serious intent involves enormous personal risk. It entails the ongoing courage for self-discovery. It means one will walk forever on the tightrope, with each new step presenting the possiblity of learning a truth about oneself that is too terrible to bear.

Truth Inspiration Dangerous Primitive

The two most common elements in the universe are hydrogen an

The two most common elements in the universe are hydrogen and stupidity.

Ignorance & Stupidity