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Full Name and Common Aliases


Robert Nathan was an American poet, novelist, playwright, and screenwriter.

Birth and Death Dates


Born on November 17, 1894, in Brooklyn, New York; died on May 11, 1985, at the age of 90 in Los Angeles, California.

Nationality and Profession(s)


Nathan was an American citizen by birth and a multifaceted writer with a career spanning poetry, novels, plays, and screenwriting.

Early Life and Background


Growing up in Brooklyn, Nathan developed a passion for writing from an early age. His interest in literature and the arts led him to study at Columbia University, where he graduated with honors. After completing his education, Nathan worked as a journalist and later as a writer of poetry and fiction, eventually establishing himself as a prominent figure in American literature.

Major Accomplishments


Nathan's writing career was marked by numerous accomplishments, including the publication of several novels that gained critical acclaim. His work spanned various genres, from romantic fiction to more serious literary pursuits. One of his notable achievements is being one of the first writers to experiment with the novel as a form.

Notable Works or Actions


Some of Nathan's most notable works include Dark Journey, a novel published in 1937 that explores themes of love and loss, and Portrait of Jennie, a semi-autobiographical novel released in 1940. His writing often dealt with universal human experiences, making his work relatable to a broad audience.

Impact and Legacy


Throughout his career, Nathan's writing made significant contributions to the literary world. He was part of a generation of American writers who were pushing the boundaries of traditional narrative forms. Nathan's work influenced many others in the field, including notable authors and poets.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Nathan is widely quoted for his insightful observations on life, love, and human nature. His writing offers a unique perspective on the complexities and nuances of human experience. The quotes from his works are frequently referenced due to their thought-provoking and poetic qualities. Nathan's legacy extends beyond his literary contributions; he also left an enduring impact through his exploration of themes that continue to resonate with readers today.

Robert Nathan's multifaceted career as a poet, novelist, playwright, and screenwriter has cemented his place in American literature. His commitment to exploring the complexities of human experience has made him a lasting figure in the literary world.

Quotes by Robert Nathan

How little we have, I thought, between us and the waiting cold, the mystery, death – a strip of beach, a hill, a few walls of wood or stone, a little fire – and tomorrow’s sun, rising and warming us, tomorrow’s hope of peace and better weather.
"
How little we have, I thought, between us and the waiting cold, the mystery, death – a strip of beach, a hill, a few walls of wood or stone, a little fire – and tomorrow’s sun, rising and warming us, tomorrow’s hope of peace and better weather.
ONE must sometimes believe what one cannot understand. That is the method of the scientist as well as the mystic: faced with a universe which must be endless and infinite, he accepts it, although he cannot really imagine it. For there is no picture in our minds of infinity; somewhere, at the furthermost limits of thought, we never fail to plot its end. Yet – if there is no end? Or if, at the end, we are only back at the beginning again?
"
ONE must sometimes believe what one cannot understand. That is the method of the scientist as well as the mystic: faced with a universe which must be endless and infinite, he accepts it, although he cannot really imagine it. For there is no picture in our minds of infinity; somewhere, at the furthermost limits of thought, we never fail to plot its end. Yet – if there is no end? Or if, at the end, we are only back at the beginning again?
My duties led me into the darkest cellars as well as the most beautiful cathedrals; often I found the cellar illuminated with a holy light, and the cathedral dark.
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My duties led me into the darkest cellars as well as the most beautiful cathedrals; often I found the cellar illuminated with a holy light, and the cathedral dark.
She has a look,” I said, “of not altogether belonging to today.
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She has a look,” I said, “of not altogether belonging to today.
Where I come from Nobody knows; And where I’m going Everything goes. The wind blows, The sea flows – And nobody knows.
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Where I come from Nobody knows; And where I’m going Everything goes. The wind blows, The sea flows – And nobody knows.
There is no distance on this earth as far away as yesterday.
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There is no distance on this earth as far away as yesterday.
Give thanks for sorrow that teaches you pity; for pain that teaches you courage...
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Give thanks for sorrow that teaches you pity; for pain that teaches you courage...
Give thanks for sorrow that teaches you pity; for pain that teaches you courage-and give exceedingly thanks for the mystery which remains a mystery still-the veil that hides you from the infinite, which makes it possible for you to believe in what you cannot see.
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Give thanks for sorrow that teaches you pity; for pain that teaches you courage-and give exceedingly thanks for the mystery which remains a mystery still-the veil that hides you from the infinite, which makes it possible for you to believe in what you cannot see.
It seems to me that I have always wanted to say the same things in my books: that life is one, that mystery is all around us, that yesterday, today and tomorrow are all spread out in the pattern of eternity, together, and that although love may wear many faces in the incomprehensible panorama of time, in the heart that loves it is always the same.
"
It seems to me that I have always wanted to say the same things in my books: that life is one, that mystery is all around us, that yesterday, today and tomorrow are all spread out in the pattern of eternity, together, and that although love may wear many faces in the incomprehensible panorama of time, in the heart that loves it is always the same.
Where I come from Nobody knows; And where I'm going Everything goes. The wind blows, The sea flows - And nobody knows.
"
Where I come from Nobody knows; And where I'm going Everything goes. The wind blows, The sea flows - And nobody knows.
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