Published in 1976, “A River Runs Through It” is a captivating novel written by Norman Maclean. Set in early 20th century Montana, the book tells the story of two brothers and their love for fly fishing. Maclean’s lyrical prose and powerful storytelling have made this book a classic in American literature. Throughout the novel, there are several quotes that stand out for their profound insight and beautiful imagery. In this article, we will explore some of the most memorable quotes from “A River Runs Through It.”
“A River Runs Through It” is not just a book about fishing, but a reflection on life, family, and the passage of time. Maclean’s words have the ability to transport readers to the banks of the Big Blackfoot River and make them feel the joy and serenity of fly fishing. The following quotes capture the essence of the novel and offer timeless wisdom:
1. “Eventually, all things merge into one, and a river runs through it. The river was cut by the world’s great flood and runs over rocks from the basement of time. On some of the rocks are timeless raindrops. Under the rocks are the words, and some of the words are theirs.” – This quote beautifully portrays the interconnectedness of nature and the eternal flow of life.
Read these “A River Runs Through It” book quotes:
“In our family, there was no clear line between religion and fly fishing.” – Norman Maclean
“All good things—trout as well as eternal salvation—come by grace and grace comes by art and art does not come easy.” – Norman Maclean
“One great thing about fly fishing is that after a while, nothing exists of the world except for the river.” – Norman Maclean
“The river was cut by the world’s great flood and runs over rocks from the basement of time.” – Norman Maclean
“I am haunted by waters.” – Norman Maclean
“It is those we live with and love and should know who elude us.” – Norman Maclean
“If our father had had his way, nobody who did not know how to fish would be allowed to disgrace a fish by catching him.” – Norman Maclean
“At sunrise, everything is luminous but not clear.” – Norman Maclean
“All the goodness and the heroisms will rise up again, then be cut down again and rise up.” – Norman Maclean
“I sat there and forgot and forgot, until what remained was the river that went by and I who watched.” – Norman Maclean
“It is not fly fishing if you are not looking for answers to questions.” – Norman Maclean
“Poets talk about ‘spots of time,’ but it is really fishermen who experience eternity compressed into a moment.” – Norman Maclean
“The world is full of bastards, the number increasing rapidly the further one gets from Missoula, Montana.” – Norman Maclean
“All there is to thinking is seeing something noticeable which makes you see something you weren’t noticing which makes you see something that isn’t even visible.” – Norman Maclean
“My father was very sure about certain matters pertaining to the universe. To him, all good things—trout as well as eternal salvation—come by grace and grace comes by art and art does not come easy.” – Norman Maclean
“The river was cut by the world’s great flood and runs over rocks from the basement of time.” – Norman Maclean
“When I was young, I thought it would be different when I got older.” – Norman Maclean
“All the cast members of the family were fishermen.” – Norman Maclean
“My father was very sure about certain matters pertaining to the universe. To him, all good things—trout as well as eternal salvation—come by grace and grace comes by art and art does not come easy.” – Norman Maclean
“One of life’s quiet excitements is to stand somewhat apart from yourself and watch yourself softly becoming the author of something beautiful, even if it is only a floating ash.” – Norman Maclean
These quotes from “A River Runs Through It” encapsulate the beauty, wisdom, and introspection that the novel offers. Whether you are a fly fishing enthusiast or simply appreciate profound literature, Norman Maclean’s words will resonate with you. Dive into the pages of this remarkable book and let the river of Maclean’s storytelling carry you away.
