Barry Lopez Quotes
Born: January 6, 1945
Barry Lopez was a luminous voice of the natural world, a writer whose profound wisdom reshaped how we see landscape, community, and the self. Author of the landmark Arctic Dreams, he wove together science, indigenous knowledge, and deep personal observation to reveal the sacredness of the earth. His philosophy held that true intelligence lies in humility and attentive silence. Lopez’s quotes resonate because they offer a quiet, fierce hope—reminding us that our survival depends on reverence for the wild and for one another, making him an enduring guide for thoughtful, meaningful living.
Barry Lopez Quotes (6)
"We simply do not understand our place in the universe and have not the courage to admit it."
— Barry Lopez"There's so much to be afraid of."
— Barry Lopez"My faith is in my colleagues. And when I meet other writers, journalists, who've been doing this for a long time, trying to make us aware of what it is that we're living in, I put my faith in those people."
— Barry Lopez"People think that if you've written a book and somebody's given you a pat on the back then, you know, it's all - you're all settled, you know? You're going to be fine. I know that if I'm not confused, and really afraid, my work isn't going to be any good."
— Barry Lopez"When I sit at that typewriter, I have to be frightened of what I'm trying to do. I'm frightened by my own belief that I can actually get a story down on paper."
— Barry Lopez"My function as a writer is to provide an atmosphere in which people can think wisely about what we're doing on this planet."
— Barry Lopez