15 George R.R. Martin Quotes on The Art of Storytelling

George R.R. Martin, born on September 20, 1948, is a prominent American author known for his epic fantasy series, A Song of Ice and Fire, which inspired HBO’s Game of Thrones.

Raised in Bayonne, New Jersey, Martin developed a passion for reading and writing at a young age, gravitating towards fantasy, science fiction and historical novels.

His storytelling is characterized by intricate plots and brutal themes, earning him a reputation as a master of the genre.

Martin’s work explores complex characters and moral ambiguity, reflecting the harsh realities of his fictional worlds.

His insights on creativity, writing and the nature of storytelling resonate deeply with fans and aspiring writers alike.


1. “A lion doesn’t concern itself with the opinion of sheep.” ~ George R.R. Martin

A lion doesn't concern itself with the opinion of sheep

The strong and mighty need not worry about the judgment of the weak and insignificant.

This quote emphasizes the importance of self-confidence and not being swayed by the views of those who lack the same power or influence.

See Also: 15 Inspiring Dr. Seuss Quotes to Unlock Your Imagination

2. “The man who fears losing has already lost.” ~ George R.R. Martin

The man who fears losing has already lost

Fear of failure is often more crippling than failure itself.

This quote suggests that the true defeat lies in allowing fear to hold us back from taking risks and pursuing our goals.

Embracing the possibility of loss can lead to greater success.

3. “Kill the boy, Jon Snow. Winter is almost upon us. Kill the boy and let the man be born.” ~ George R.R. Martin

Kill the boy, Jon Snow. Winter is almost upon us. Kill the boy and let the man be born

This quote encourages shedding one’s childish ways and embracing the responsibilities of adulthood.

As winter approaches, representing hardship and challenges, one must let go of the past and grow into a stronger, more mature version of oneself to face the difficulties ahead.

4. “Once you’ve accepted your flaws, no one can use them against you.” ~ George R.R. Martin

Once you've accepted your flaws, no one can use them against you

Acknowledging and owning our imperfections is a powerful act of self-acceptance.

This quote suggests that by embracing our weaknesses, we take away the ability of others to use them to hurt or manipulate us.

It’s a liberating step towards self-empowerment.

5. “There is no creature on earth half so terrifying as a truly just man.” ~ George R.R. Martin

There is no creature on earth half so terrifying as a truly just man

A person driven by an unwavering sense of justice can be a formidable force to be reckoned with.

This quote implies that someone who acts with uncompromising fairness, even in the face of adversity, can be more frightening than any physical threat.

6. “Every flight begins with a fall.” ~ George R.R. Martin

This quote reminds us that progress and success often require taking risks and facing setbacks.

The journey towards achievement is rarely a straight line and embracing the possibility of failure is necessary for eventual triumph.

7. “Different roads sometimes lead to the same castle.” ~ George R.R. Martin

Different roads sometimes lead to the same castle

There are many paths to reach a desired destination or goal.

This quote encourages an open-mindedness towards alternative routes and a recognition that success can be achieved through various means, even if they differ from the conventional or expected approach.

8. “Nothing someone says before the word ‘but’ really counts.” ~ George R.R. Martin

This quote highlights the importance of paying attention to the words that follow the word “but” in a conversation.

Often, what comes before “but” is a mere preface, while the true meaning is revealed in the subsequent statement, rendering the initial words meaningless.

9. “The brightest flame casts the darkest shadow.” ~ George R.R. Martin

This quote suggests that the most brilliant and successful individuals can also cast the longest shadows of doubt, fear and envy in others.

It serves as a reminder that greatness often comes with a price and that even the most accomplished people face their own challenges and struggles.

Read Also: 15 Best Oscar Wilde Quotes Master the Art of Wit

10. “I will take what is mine with fire and blood.” ~ George R.R. Martin

I will take what is mine with fire and blood

This quote expresses a determination to claim what one believes rightfully belongs to them, even if it requires the use of force and violence.

It represents a willingness to fight for one’s cause, no matter the cost or consequences.

11. “For the night is dark and full of terrors.” ~ George R.R. Martin

This quote acknowledges the presence of fear and uncertainty in life’s journey.

The night, representing the unknown and the challenges that lie ahead, can be daunting and filled with potential dangers.

However, it also implies the need to face these terrors with courage and resilience.

12. “A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only once.” ~ George R.R. Martin

This quote emphasizes the transformative power of reading.

It suggests that through books, one can experience a multitude of lives, perspectives and adventures, expanding their understanding of the world and themselves.

In contrast, those who do not read miss out on the richness and diversity that literature offers.

13. “A mind needs books as a sword needs a whetstone, if it is to keep its edge.” ~ George R.R. Martin

A mind needs books as a sword needs a whetstone, if it is to keep its edge

This quote likens the sharpening of a sword to the nourishment of the mind through reading.

Just as a sword requires regular maintenance to remain sharp and effective, the mind needs constant stimulation and learning to stay sharp and adaptable.

Books serve as the whetstone that hones and refines the intellect.

14. “When the snows fall and the white winds blow, the lone wolf dies but the pack survives.” ~ George R.R. Martin

This quote emphasizes the importance of community and support in times of adversity.

It suggests that while individuals may face challenges alone, they are more likely to endure and overcome hardships when they have the backing and solidarity of a group or a family.

Isolation can lead to downfall, while unity fosters resilience.

15. “What is dead may never die, but rises again, stronger and harder.” ~ George R.R. Martin

This quote suggests that some things, whether ideas, beliefs, or even individuals, are eternal and cannot be permanently destroyed.

Even in the face of death or defeat, they have the potential to be reborn, emerging stronger and more resilient than before.

It represents the indomitable human spirit and the capacity for renewal and growth.

15 George R.R. Martin Quotes on The Art of Storytelling - Powerful Quotes
Chandan Negi
Chandan Negi

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