Hunter S. Thompson was an iconic American journalist and author known for his unconventional writing style and fearlessness in tackling controversial subjects. His electrifying prose and biting wit have left an indelible mark on American literature. Here are some of the best and most popular quotes by Hunter S. Thompson:
1. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas:
“We had two bags of grass, seventy-five pellets of mescaline, five sheets of high-powered blotter acid, a saltshaker half full of cocaine, and a whole galaxy of multicolored uppers, downers, screamers, laughers… Also, a quart of tequila, a quart of rum, a case of Budweiser, a pint of raw ether, and two dozen amyls. Not that we needed all that for the trip, but once you get into a serious drug collection, the tendency is to push it as far as you can.”
2. Life’s Meaning:
“Freedom is something that dies unless it’s used.”
3. Journalism:
“I hate to advocate drugs, alcohol, violence, or insanity to anyone, but they’ve always worked for me.”
4. Personal Fulfillment:
“The edge… There is no honest way to explain it because the only people who really know where it is are the ones who have gone over.”
5. Politics:
“In a nation ruled by swine, all pigs are upward-mobile, and the rest of us are fucked until we can put our acts together.”
6. Truth and Perception:
“Objective journalism is one of the main reasons that American politics has been allowed to be so corrupt for so long.”
7. Courage:
“I understand that fear is my friend, but not always. Never turn your back on fear. It should always be in front of you, like a thing that might have to be killed. Or should be.”
8. The American Dream:
“The American Dream really is just that… a dream. A fantasy. A big lie told to suckers by the rich, acquisitive elite.”
9. Society:
“There is nothing more helpless and irresponsible than a man in the depths of an ether binge.”
10. Writing:
“Writing is the only profession where no one considers you ridiculous if you earn no money.”
Hunter S. Thompson’s unique perspective on life, politics, and journalism continues to inspire and provoke to this day. These quotes provide just a small glimpse into the mind of a true literary maverick.