Robert Bolt
Robert Bolt
Full Name and Common Aliases
Robert Nathan Bolt, commonly known as Bob Bolt, was a British playwright, screenwriter, and novelist.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on February 15, 1924, in Didsbury, Manchester, England, to a family of modest means. Robert Bolt passed away on February 20, 1995, leaving behind an enduring legacy as one of the most celebrated playwrights of his generation.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Bolt was British by nationality and a multifaceted artist with careers spanning playwriting, screenwriting, and novel-writing. His work often explored themes of morality, politics, and human relationships.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Manchester, Bolt developed an interest in writing at an early age. He attended Didsbury Secondary School before moving to London to pursue a career in the arts. Bolt's experiences during World War II, including his time serving as a naval officer, significantly influenced his writing.
Major Accomplishments
Bolt's breakthrough play, "Flowering Cherry," was produced in 1954 and gained critical acclaim for its exploration of themes such as love, family dynamics, and personal identity. This success led to Bolt's collaboration with playwright Harold Pinter, resulting in the production of "The Last Ditch."
Notable Works or Actions
One of Bolt's most famous works is undoubtedly his screenplay for "Lawrence of Arabia," released in 1962. The film, directed by David Lean, won seven Academy Awards and solidified Bolt's reputation as a masterful storyteller.
Bolt also penned the screenplay for the epic historical drama "Doctor Zhivago," which premiered in 1965 to widespread acclaim. This powerful exploration of love, war, and sacrifice cemented Bolt's position as one of the most innovative screenwriters of his time.
Impact and Legacy
Throughout his career, Robert Bolt demonstrated a unique ability to craft compelling narratives that explored complex themes and emotions. His works often delved into the human condition, inviting audiences to reflect on their own experiences and values.
Bolt's writing has had a lasting impact on the world of theater and cinema. His stories continue to captivate audiences today, and his contributions have inspired generations of playwrights and screenwriters.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Robert Bolt is widely quoted for his insightful observations on human nature and relationships. His words often touch upon fundamental aspects of life, such as love, loyalty, and the complexities of human connection. By sharing these quotes with readers, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world around us and appreciate the enduring wisdom of this remarkable individual.
Bolt's legacy extends far beyond his body of work; he has left behind an indelible mark on the literary landscape, forever changing the way audiences engage with stories about human experience.
Quotes by Robert Bolt
Some men think the Earth is round, others think it flat; it is a matter capable of question. But, if it is flat, will the King’s command make it round? And, if it is round, will the King’s command flatten it?
Death comes for us all; even at our birth – even at our birth, death does but stand aside a little. And every day he looks towards us and muses somewhat to himself whether that day or the next he will draw nigh. It is the law of nature, and the will of God.
The law is not a ‘light’ for you or any man to see by; the law is not an instrument of any kind. The law is a causeway upon which so long as he keeps to it a citizen may walk safely.
Morality’s not practical. Morality’s a gesture. A complicated gesture learnt from books.
The man who tells lies hides the truth, but the man who tells half-lies has forgotten where he put it.
If we lived in a State where virtue was profitable, common sense would make us good, and greed would make us saintly. And we'd live like animals or angels in the happy land that /needs/ no heroes. But since in fact we see that avarice, anger, envy, pride, sloth, lust and stupidity commonly profit far beyond humility, chastity, fortitude, justice and thought, and have to choose, to be human at all... why then perhaps we /must/ stand fast a little --even at the risk of being heroes.
A belief is not merely an idea the mind possesses; it is an idea that possesses the mind.
I wish we could all have good luck, all the time! I wish we had wings! I wish rain water was beer!