Set in Georgia during the American Civil War and Reconstruction Era, is the only novel written by American journalist . An immediate bestseller, it received a Pulitzer Prize in 1937, just a year after its publication, and was made into a beloved Oscar-winning film, starring Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable, in 1939. This sweeping work of historical fiction centers on the spirited and headstrong Southern belle Scarlett O'Hara as she tries to adapt to life during this time of bloodshed, turmoil, and transformation. Against this often frightening backdrop unfolds an epic tale of romance. From unrequited passion to a tumultuous relationship with the charming Rhett Butler, Scarlett's quest for love sees her scheme, plot, and betray those around her.
These 30+ Gone with the Wind quotes explore some of the novel's key themes, including fate, love, and resilience. Read on to discover the drama and magic of this American literary classic.
The best quotes from Gone with the Wind on acceptance and fate
"Life's under no obligation to give us what we expect."
"What is broken is broken—and I'd rather remember it as it was at its best than mend it and see the broken places as long as I lived."
"War and marriage and childbirth had passed over her without touching any deep chord within her and she was unchanged."
"I was right when I said I'd never look back. It hurts too much, it drags at your heart till you can't ever do anything else except look back."
The best quotes from Gone with the Wind on independence and self-realization
"Fighting is like champagne. It goes to the heads of cowards as quickly as of heroes. Any fool can be brave on a battlefield when it's be brave or else be killed."
"Now you are beginning to think for yourself instead of letting others think for you. That's the beginning of wisdom."
"She hasn't your strength. She's never had any strength. She's never had anything but heart."
"Until you've lost your reputation, you never realize what a burden it was or what freedom really is."
"She knew what she wanted and went after it by the shortest route."
The best quotes from Gone with the Wind on legacy and values
"The land is the only thing in the world worth working for, worth fighting for, worth dying for, because it's the only thing that lasts."
"Money is the most important thing in the world. It represents health, strength, honor, generosity, and beauty."
