72 Quotes by Halldór Laxness

Of all the creatures that man kills for his amusement there is only one that he kills out of hatred—other men. Man hates nothing as much as himself. That is why war is called the leprosy of the human soul.

Don't forget that few people are likely to tell more than a small part of the truth: no one tells much of the truth, let alone the whole truth. Spoken words are facts in themselves, whether true or false. When people talk they reveal themselves, whether they're lying or telling the truth.

It's a useful habit to never believe more than half of what people tell you, and not to concern yourself with the rest. Rather keep your mind free and your path your own.

It's a pity we don't whistle at one another, like birds. Words are misleading.

Whoever doesn't live in poetry cannot survive here on earth.

For man is essentially alone, and one should pity him and love him and grieve with him.

Icelanders are grateful to meet foreigners who have heard of their country. And even more grateful to hear someone say it deserves better.

It’s a pity we don’t whistle at one another, like birds. Words are misleading.

Whoever doesn’t live in poetry cannot survive here on earth.