Welcome to our collection of inspirational quotes by the renowned American author, Jack London. Born on January 12, 1876, in San Francisco, California, Jack London’s life was as adventurous and captivating as the stories he penned. His works, which include classics like The Call of the Wild, White Fang, and To Build a Fire, have left an indelible mark on literature, exploring themes of survival, nature, and the human spirit.
London’s writing was heavily influenced by his own experiences, having spent time as a sailor, prospector, and adventurer in the Klondike Gold Rush. His firsthand encounters with the harsh realities of life shaped his worldview and provided the raw material for his compelling narratives. Throughout his career, London’s powerful prose and keen insight into the human condition have resonated with readers worldwide, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest storytellers of the 20th century. Below, you’ll find a selection of Jack London’s most memorable quotes, each offering a glimpse into his profound wisdom and enduring literary legacy.
If cash comes with fame, come fame; if cash comes without fame, come cash. Jack London
One cannot violate the promptings of one’s nature without having that nature recoil upon itself. Jack London
I write for no other purpose than to add to the beauty that now belongs to me. I write a book for no other reason than to add three or four hundred acres to my magnificent estate. Jack London
The scab is a traitor to his God, his mother, and his class. Jack London
The proper function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them. I shall use my time. Jack London
Life is not a matter of holding good cards, but sometimes, playing a poor hand well. Jack London
Darn the wheel of the world! Why must it continually turn over? Where is the reverse gear? Jack London
A bone to the dog is not charity. Charity is the bone shared with the dog, when you are just as hungry as the dog. Jack London
I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet. Jack London
You can’t wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club. Jack London
Do you know the only value life has is what life puts on itself? Jack London
San Francisco is gone. Nothing remains of it but memories. Jack London
There is an ecstasy that marks the summit of life, and beyond which life cannot rise. And such is the paradox of living, this ecstasy comes when one is most alive, and it comes as a complete forgetfulness that one is alive. Jack London
Affluence means influence. Jack London
I would rather be ashes than dust! I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet. Jack London
Life is so short. I would rather sing one song than interpret the thousand. Jack London