Inspirational Quotations

Inspirational Quotes by William Safire (American Columnist, Editor)

William Lewis Safire (1929–2009,) né Safir, was a Pulitzer Prize-winning American journalist, author, and speechwriter known for his wit, political commentary, and linguistic expertise. He gained prominence for his conservative political columns (1973–2005) in The New York Times and his On Language columns (1979–2009) in The New York Times Magazine, which explored the history and meaning of popular phrases.

Born in New York City, Safire attended Syracuse University and began his career in public relations, gaining recognition as a speechwriter, notably crafting President Richard Nixon’s “Checkers speech” in 1952. He later became a columnist for The New York Times, writing Essay 1973–2005, where his sharp, libertarian-conservative analysis earned him a Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 1978.

Safire’s passion for language was evident in his On Language column and works such as On Language (1980,) Fumblerules: Guide to Grammar and Good Usage (1990,) and The Right Word in the Right Place & Time (2004.) His historical novel Freedom (1987) and Lend Me Your Ears: Great Speeches in History (1992) highlighted his love for storytelling and history.

More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by William Safire

The right to do something does not mean that doing it is right.
—William Safire
Topics: Integrity

If you want to “get in touch with your feelings,” fine, talk to yourself. We all do. But if you want to communicate with another thinking human being, get in touch with your thoughts.
—William Safire
Topics: Feelings

Only in grammar can you be more than perfect.
—William Safire
Topics: Perfection

Never assume the obvious is true.
—William Safire
Topics: Creativity, The Truth

Is sloppiness in speech caused by ignorance or apathy? I don’t know and I don’t care.
—William Safire
Topics: Speaking, Speakers

To “know your place” is a good idea in politics. That is not to say “stay in your place” or “hang on to your place,” because ambition or boredom may dictate upward or downward mobility, but a sense of place—a feel for one’s own position in the control room—is useful in gauging what you should try to do.
—William Safire
Topics: Politics

Nobody stands taller than those willing to stand corrected.
—William Safire
Topics: Humility

Knowing how things work is the basis for appreciation, and is thus a source of civilized delight.
—William Safire
Topics: Appreciation

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