John Green, a popular author and thinker, has a unique way of expressing complex ideas in simple words. His quotes are like little nuggets of wisdom that inspire us in various aspects of life. From love and relationships to facing fears and understanding the mysteries of life, John Green quotes have the power to motivate and make us think. In this post, we’ll explore some of John Green’s most thought-provoking quotes, break them down into simple words, and discover how they can inspire us in our everyday lives. Get ready to find wisdom and inspiration in the simplicity of John Green’s words!
John Green Quotes
Explore the profound words of John Green as we explore quotes that inspire love, courage, self-reflection, and much more.
John Green’s Quotes on The Power of Books:
Quote 1: “Sometimes, you read a book and it fills you with this weird evangelical zeal, and you become convinced that the shattered world will never be put back together unless and until all living humans read the book.” – This quote means that sometimes when you read a really good book, it can make you feel so enthusiastic and passionate about it that you believe the world can’t be fixed unless everyone reads that book.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to see the incredible power of books. It shows that books have the ability to deeply affect us and make us want to share their wisdom and stories with others. It encourages us to be passionate about reading and to share our favorite books with the people we care about.
- Additional Tip – Books have the remarkable ability to inspire, educate, and bring people together. When you discover a book that truly moves you, don’t hesitate to recommend it to others. Your enthusiasm can help spread the knowledge, emotions, and ideas contained in that book to a wider audience, potentially making the world a better place through shared understanding.
Quote 2: “Books are the ultimate Dumpees: put them down and they’ll wait for you forever; pay attention to them and they always love you back.” – This quote means that books are always there for you. You can leave them for a while, and they’ll still be there when you come back. When you read them, they give you love and knowledge in return.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to appreciate the constant presence of books in our lives. Books are like loyal friends, patiently waiting for us to return to them, and they never stop offering us their wisdom and stories. It reminds us of the enduring value of reading.
- Additional Tip – Always remember that books can be a source of comfort, knowledge, and entertainment in your life. Don’t underestimate the bond you can create with the books you read. They will always be there to welcome you back into their worlds, no matter how much time has passed.
Quote 3: “Books so special and rare and yours that advertising your affection feels like a betrayal.” – This quote suggests that some books are so precious to you, and you connect with them on such a deep level that sharing them with others can feel like you’re betraying the personal and unique relationship you have with the book.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to treasure the books that hold a special place in our hearts. It reminds us that it’s okay to have certain books that are incredibly personal to us, almost like a secret love. It’s a reminder that the bond between a reader and their favorite books is a unique and intimate one.
- Additional Tip – While some books are deeply personal, it can also be a wonderful experience to share your favorites with others, as it can lead to meaningful discussions and connections. Finding a balance between keeping some books close to your heart and sharing the joy of reading with others can enrich your reading experience.
John Green’s Quotes on Love and Relationships
Quote 4: “You don’t get to choose if you get hurt in this world…but you do have some say in who hurts you. I like my choices.” – This quote means that in life, you can’t avoid getting hurt, but you can decide who you let get close to you. The speaker is saying they’re happy with the people they’ve chosen to be close to, even if it means they might get hurt by them.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to take control of our relationships and be mindful of who we allow into our lives. It suggests that choosing the right people to be close to is a way to protect your heart and well-being.
- Additional Tip – Be selective about the people you let into your life. While you can’t avoid all hurt, surrounding yourself with caring and trustworthy individuals can lead to more positive and fulfilling relationships.
Quote 5: “You can love someone so much…But you can never love people as much as you can miss them.” – This quote tells us that you can love someone deeply, but the feeling of missing someone when they’re not with you is a unique and powerful emotion that love can’t fully replace.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to appreciate the people we love and cherish the moments we have with them. It also reminds us that missing someone can be a beautiful reminder of the love we share.
- Additional Tip – Love and missing someone go hand in hand. When you miss someone, it’s a sign of the deep connection you have. Embrace both the love you feel when they’re near and the longing when they’re not.
Quote 6: “There’s some people in this world who you can just love and love and love no matter what.” – This quote conveys that there are individuals in our lives who are so lovable that we can continue to love them unconditionally, regardless of circumstances.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to appreciate the rare and wonderful people who bring out endless love in us. It encourages us to nurture such relationships and cherish the love we have for those special individuals.
- Additional Tip – The love you have for certain people can be boundless. Treasure these relationships, and let the love you feel for them grow and thrive.
Quote 7: “Sometimes people don’t understand the promises they’re making when they make them.” – This quote suggests that sometimes, when people make promises, they may not fully realize the commitment and responsibilities they’re taking on.
- Inspiration: This quote reminds us to be thoughtful and sincere when making promises or commitments to others. It encourages us to understand the weight of our words and the impact of our actions on the people we care about.
- Additional Tip – Before making promises, take the time to consider the implications and be sure you’re willing and able to follow through. Open and honest communication is key to maintaining healthy and trusting relationships.
Quote 8: “True love will triumph in the end—which may or may not be a lie, but if it is a lie, it’s the most beautiful lie we have.” – This quote suggests that even if the idea of true love prevailing in the end is not guaranteed, it’s a beautiful and hopeful belief to hold.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to believe in the power of love and hope, even in the face of uncertainty. It reminds us that love can be a source of beauty and positivity in our lives, even if we don’t know how things will turn out.
- Additional Tip – Embrace the beauty of believing in love. While it may not guarantee a perfect ending, it can fill your life with joy and optimism. Love is worth believing in, even in the face of uncertainty.
Quote 9: “We all know how loving ends. But I want to fall in love with the world anyway, to let it crack me open. I want to feel what there is to feel while I am here.” – This quote conveys the idea that love often leads to heartbreak, but the speaker is willing to love the world and experience the full range of emotions despite knowing this.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to embrace love and all its ups and downs. It encourages us to open ourselves to the world and allow ourselves to feel deeply, even if it means facing heartbreak.
- Additional Tip – Love is a risk, but it’s also one of life’s greatest joys. Don’t be afraid to love deeply, even if it means the possibility of pain. Embracing the full spectrum of emotions can lead to a rich and meaningful life.
Quote 10: “Everybody should have true love, and it should last at least as long as your life does.” – This quote suggests that everyone deserves to experience true love, and it should endure for the entirety of one’s life.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to believe in the enduring power of true love. It reminds us that love is something everyone should have the chance to experience and that it should be a lifelong journey.
- Additional Tip – Strive for lasting and meaningful love in your life. While it may not always be easy to find or maintain, the pursuit of true love is a worthy and fulfilling endeavor.
Quote 11: “Our hearts were broken in the same places. That’s something like love, but maybe not quite the thing itself.” – This quote suggests that when two people have experienced similar pain or heartbreak, it can create a connection that is similar to love, but not exactly the same.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to recognize the bonds formed through shared experiences, especially those involving hardship. It acknowledges that common pain can create a unique connection between people.
- Additional Tip – Shared experiences, even if they involve heartbreak, can lead to deep connections and understanding between individuals. These connections may not be traditional romantic love, but they are significant and valuable in their own right.
John Green’s Quotes on Forgiveness and Overcoming Suffering
Quote 12: “The only way out of the labyrinth of suffering is to forgive.” – This quote means that when you’re stuck in a difficult and painful situation, the only way to find a way out or heal is to forgive. Forgiveness can help you move forward from suffering.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to recognize the power of forgiveness in overcoming suffering. It encourages us to let go of grudges and resentments, as forgiveness can be a path toward healing and finding peace in challenging times.
- Additional Tip – Forgiveness can be a gift to both yourself and others. It doesn’t mean you condone or forget what happened, but it allows you to release the hold that suffering and anger have on your life.
Quote 13: “I’m not saying that everything is survivable. Just that everything except the last thing is.” – This quote suggests that while not everything is bearable or can be endured, everything except death can be survived. In the face of suffering, there’s always the possibility of overcoming it.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to have resilience and hope. It reminds us that even in the darkest times, there’s a chance to survive and eventually find a way to move forward.
- Additional Tip – When facing suffering or challenges, remember that your ability to endure and find a way through is a testament to your strength. Seek support and help when needed, and don’t lose hope.
Quote 14: “When things break, it’s not the actual breaking that prevents them from getting back together again. It’s because a little piece gets lost – the two remaining ends couldn’t fit together even if they wanted to. The whole shape has changed.” – This quote suggests that when something breaks, it’s not the break itself that makes it impossible to repair, but the fact that a piece is missing. Even if you want to put it back together, it can’t be the same as before because the essential part is gone.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to understand that some things can’t be fully restored to their previous state after they’ve been broken. It encourages us to appreciate the value of what remains and to adapt to the changes in life.
- Additional Tip – Sometimes, you can’t undo the damage, but you can create something new from what’s left. It’s important to accept the changes that come with suffering and find strength in rebuilding and moving forward.
John Green’s Quotes on Self-Reflection and Taking Action
Quote 15: “What is the point of being alive if you don’t at least try to do something remarkable?” – This quote asks why we’re alive if we don’t even attempt to do something extraordinary or significant with our lives. It challenges us to consider the purpose of our existence.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to aim for greatness and make the most of our lives. It encourages us to step out of our comfort zones, take risks, and strive for remarkable achievements.
- Additional Tip – Don’t settle for a mediocre or unfulfilled life. Take chances, pursue your passions, and work towards doing something remarkable. It’s in the pursuit of greatness that we often find our true purpose.
Quote 16: “If you don’t imagine, nothing ever happens at all.” – This quote means that if we don’t dream, create, or imagine, nothing will change or progress in our lives. Imagination is the starting point for making things happen.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to be creative, imaginative, and innovative. It reminds us that our dreams and ideas are the seeds from which real change and progress can grow.
- Additional Tip – Nurture your imagination and allow it to guide you towards new possibilities and opportunities. Don’t be afraid to dream big and turn those dreams into reality.
Quote 17: “You don’t remember what happened. What you remember becomes what happened.” – This quote suggests that our memories shape our understanding of the past. What we remember and how we remember it can change our perception of events.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to recognize the power of perspective and memory. It encourages us to reflect on how our recollections influence our understanding of our personal history.
- Additional Tip – Be aware that your memories are not always a perfect reflection of reality. When looking back on your life, consider how your memories might be shaping your perception, and use this awareness to gain deeper insights into your experiences.
Quote 18: “I try to live life so that I can live with myself.” – This quote means that the speaker tries to live in a way that they can be proud of and feel good about. They want to have a clear conscience and not regret their actions.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to make choices and live in a manner that aligns with our values and principles. It encourages us to lead a life that we can be content with and proud of.
- Additional Tip – Live in a way that allows you to look at yourself in the mirror with self-respect and satisfaction. Make choices that reflect your true self and the kind of person you want to be.
Quote 19: “Our fearlessness shall be our secret weapon.” – This quote suggests that fearlessness, the absence of fear, can be a powerful and hidden advantage or strength.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to embrace fearlessness and use it to our advantage. It encourages us to recognize that being unafraid can give us an edge in facing challenges and pursuing our goals.
- Additional Tip – Don’t let fear hold you back. Use fearlessness as your secret weapon to take on new challenges and achieve your dreams. Conquer your fears, and you’ll discover your hidden strength.
John Green’s Quotes on Life Lessons
Quote 20: “Nothing ever happens like you imagine it will.” – This quote tells us that our expectations often don’t match reality. Things rarely turn out exactly as we picture them in our minds.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to be adaptable and open to life’s surprises. It encourages us to embrace the unpredictability of life and be ready to adjust our expectations.
- Additional Tip – Don’t be too attached to your specific expectations. Be open to the unexpected and willing to go with the flow when things don’t go as planned.
Quote 21: “If only we could see the endless string of consequences that result from our smallest actions. But we can’t know better until knowing better is useless.” – This quote suggests that we often can’t foresee all the outcomes of our smallest actions, and sometimes we only understand the consequences when it’s too late to change anything.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to be mindful of our actions and decisions. It encourages us to consider the potential consequences of our choices and to make informed decisions, even when the full impact is unclear.
- Additional Tip – Think about the potential consequences of your actions, especially the small ones. Being mindful of how your choices can affect your life and the lives of others is a valuable life lesson.
Quote 22: “Every year, many, many stupid people graduate from college. And if they can do it, so can you.” – This quote humorously reminds us that not everyone who graduates from college is a genius. If they can do it, we can too.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to believe in our abilities and not underestimate ourselves. It encourages us to pursue education and other goals without feeling inferior or incapable.
- Additional Tip – Don’t let self-doubt hold you back. Many people with varying levels of intelligence succeed in their endeavors. Your determination and effort can make a big difference.
Quote 23: “We have this weird thing in the world where you don’t get insulted for what you do, you get insulted for who you are.” – This quote highlights a peculiar aspect of society where people are often judged and insulted based on their identity and not just their actions.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to be aware of and challenge prejudices and stereotypes. It encourages us to promote a more inclusive and understanding world where people are not unfairly judged for who they are.
- Additional Tip – Promote acceptance and kindness in your interactions with others. Challenge stereotypes and biases, and strive to treat people based on their actions and character rather than their identity.
John Green’s Quotes on Facing Fear and Uncertainty
Quote 24: “Scared isn’t a good excuse. Scared is the excuse everyone has always used.” – This quote suggests that being scared is a common feeling, but it’s not a valid excuse for avoiding something.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to confront our fears and not let them hold us back. It encourages us to take action despite our fears and reminds us that we can’t grow or achieve our goals if we always use fear as an excuse.
- Additional Tip – Don’t let fear dictate your choices. Recognize that fear is a natural emotion, and taking action in the face of fear is a courageous and valuable skill.
Quote 25: “Do you know what your problem is? You can’t live with the idea that someone might leave.” – This quote points out that the fear of someone leaving or ending a relationship can be a challenge for some people.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to have more confidence in ourselves and our relationships. It encourages us to let go of the fear of abandonment and trust in our own worth and the strength of our connections with others.
- Additional Tip – In relationships, it’s essential to have trust and security in yourself and in your bonds with others. Fear of abandonment can strain relationships, so work on building trust and confidence.
Inspirational Quotes by John Green
Quote 26: “Everything that comes together falls apart. When you stopped wishing things wouldn’t fall apart, you stopped suffering when they did.” – This quote tells us that everything in life eventually changes or ends. When you accept that fact and stop wishing for things to last forever, you can find peace when they do come to an end.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to embrace the impermanence of life. It encourages us to let go of the fear of change and loss, leading to less suffering and a greater appreciation of the present.
- Additional Tip – Practice acceptance of life’s natural transitions. Recognize that change is a part of life, and it doesn’t have to be feared or resisted.
Quote 27: “The pleasure isn’t in doing the thing, the pleasure is in planning it.” – This quote suggests that excitement and enjoyment often come from making plans and imagining an activity rather than actually doing it.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to savor the anticipation and excitement of planning and dreaming about our goals and adventures. It encourages us to appreciate the process of planning and not rush through it.
- Additional Tip – Enjoy the journey of planning and preparing for your goals. The anticipation and preparation can be as fulfilling as the end result.
Quote 28: “The problem with happy endings is that they’re either not really happy, or not really endings, you know? In real life, some things get better and some things get worse. And then eventually you die.” – This quote suggests that in real life, things don’t always end perfectly, and life continues with its ups and downs until it comes to its natural end.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to have a realistic view of life. It encourages us to accept the imperfections and uncertainties, recognizing that life is a mixture of good and bad moments.
- Additional Tip – Embrace the complexity of life and find beauty in its imperfections. Happiness doesn’t always come in neatly wrapped “happy endings.”
Quote 29: “Once you think a thought, it is extremely difficult to unthink it.” – This quote means that once a thought is in your mind, it’s tough to erase it or forget about it.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to be mindful of our thoughts and their power. It encourages us to choose our thoughts carefully, as they can shape our feelings and actions.
- Additional Tip – Pay attention to your thoughts, and try to focus on positive and constructive thinking. Your thoughts can influence your outlook and emotions.
Quote 30: “Pain is like fabric: The stronger it is, the more it’s worth.” – This quote compares pain to a valuable material. The more intense and challenging the pain, the more potential there is for growth and strength.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to see pain as an opportunity for personal growth and resilience. It encourages us to find strength in adversity and learn from difficult experiences.
- Additional Tip – Use moments of pain and adversity as opportunities for personal growth. Pain can be a catalyst for inner strength and transformation.
Quote 31: “We all use the future to escape the present.” – This quote suggests that people often daydream about the future to avoid or distract themselves from their current circumstances.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to be more present in our lives. It encourages us to appreciate the here and now rather than constantly seeking escape or distraction through future fantasies.
- Additional Tip – Practice mindfulness and live in the moment. Being fully present can lead to a more fulfilling and content life.
Quote 32: “Nothing’s wrong. Everything’s right. Things couldn’t be righter.” – This quote emphasizes that everything is as it should be, and there’s nothing wrong with the current state of things.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to embrace contentment and recognize the goodness in the present. It encourages us to find beauty and satisfaction in the present moment.
- Additional Tip – Develop gratitude for what you have and where you are in life. Contentment often leads to a happier and more fulfilled existence.
Quote 33: “Imagining isn’t perfect. You can’t get all the way inside someone else…But imagining being someone else, or the world being something else, is the only way in. It is the machine that kills fascists.” – This quote tells us that while we can’t fully understand someone else’s perspective, imagining their experiences can help us empathize and connect with them.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to practice empathy and understand the importance of putting ourselves in others’ shoes. It encourages us to use our imagination to build bridges of understanding and compassion.
- Additional Tip – Empathy is a powerful tool for building connections and fostering positive relationships. Practice empathy in your interactions with others to create a more compassionate world.
Quote 34: “Last words are always harder to remember when no one knows that someone’s about to die.” – This quote suggests that it’s difficult to remember what someone said as their last words if no one knew they were about to die at that moment.
- Inspiration: This quote inspires us to appreciate the significance of our words and interactions with others at all times. It encourages us to communicate with love and kindness, as we never know when our words might be our last.
- Additional Tip: Treat each interaction with care, kindness, and love, as you never know when it might be your last chance to connect with someone. Your words have a lasting impact on people’s lives.
Thanks for reading!
