Stephen R. Donaldson Quotes

novelist

Stephen Reeder Donaldson (born May 13, 1947, in Cleveland) is an American fantasy, science fiction and mystery novelist. His works are noted for their use of complicated and often obscure language, a strong focus on characterization, and epic themes tied to a humanist world view.

From: Wikiquote (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Pen Names: Reed Stephens

Alternative Names: Stephen Reeder Donaldson

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Power is power. Its uses are in the hands of the user.

War puts burdens on people without caring whether they are ready for them or not.

Do not hurt where holding is enough;
do not wound where hurting is enough;
do not maim where wounding is enough;
and kill not where maiming is enough;
the greatest warrior is he who does not need to kill.

I would say that happiness lies in serving the Land. And I would say that there is no happiness in times of war.

It may be that hope misleads. But hate—hate corrupts. I have been too quick to hate. I become like what I abhor.

Don’t talk like a damned mystic. Say something I can understand.

All you need to avoid despair is irremediable stupidity or unlimited stubbornness.

That was a joke. Or a metaphor." Covenant made another effort to turn his sarcasm into humor. "I can never tell the difference.

Ah, it is hard to take pride in human history.

Go to hell," Covenant mumbled. "Don't you ever sleep?"
"The Bloodguard do not sleep."
"What?"
"No Bloodguard has slept since the Haruchai swore their Vow."
With an effort, Covenant pulled himself into a sitting position. He peered blearily at Bannor for a moment, then muttered, "You're already in hell.

We have searched the seas, and have waited for the omens to come to pass." Foamfollower paused to look thoughtfully at Covenant, then went on: "Ah, my Lords, omening is curious. So much is said—and so little made clear.

I admit the desire. But do not tempt me. Power has a way of revenging itself upon its usurpers.

A good laugh, Covenant sighed morosely. Did I do a whole life’s laughing in that little time?

Foamfollower’s question caught him wandering. “Are you a storyteller, Thomas Covenant?”
Absently, he replied, “I was, once.”
“And you gave it up? Ah, that is as sad a tale in three words as any you might have told me. But a life without a tale is like a sea without salt. How do you live?”…
“I live.”
“Another?” Foamfollower returned. “In two words, a story sadder than the first. Say no more—with one word you will make me weep.”

Why? Why do you trust me?"
The Hirebrand's eyes gleamed as if he were on the verge of tears, but he was smiling as he said, "You are a man who knows the value of beauty.