Meaningful Citations to Make Our Life Pleasant from Anne of Green Gables

By Han Hak-sun)
Professor of the Department of English Education

 L. M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables is a timeless novel that continues to captivate readers with its charm, wit, and life-affirming messages. The story follows Anne Shirley, an imaginative and spirited orphan who is mistakenly sent to live with elderly siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert in the quiet town of Avonlea. Though initially unwanted, Anne’s bright personality, boundless imagination, and unwavering optimism gradually endear her to those around her. 

 Throughout the novel, Anne faces many challenges, from social rejection and misunderstandings to a deep longing for love and belonging. However, instead of succumbing to despair, she uses her creativity and enthusiasm to reframe her struggles in a positive light. Her vivid imagination transforms ordinary moments into grand adventures, allowing her to find joy even in difficult situations. Her words and outlook inspire us to approach life with hope, even in our darkest times.

 This article will explore some of the most inspiring quotes and useful expressions from Anne of Green Gables, highlighting the power of language and optimism in overcoming adversity. The following quotations are excerpted from the 2022 Indigo edition of Anne of Green Gables. I have selected passages that I believe can encourage readers to live positively and embrace hope. These quotes are categorized into five themes, with my reflections provided at the end of each section. 

The Joy of Curiosity and Imagination

• Isn’t it splendid to think of all the things there are to find out about? (p.38)

• It wouldn’t be half so interesting if we knew all about everything, would it? (p.38)

• There are so many things in this room and all so splendid that there is no scope for imagination. That is one consolation when you are poor: there are so many more things you can imagine about. (p.440)

 Curiosity makes life exciting. The unknown gives us endless possibilities to explore and imagine. A lack of material wealth can even encourage greater creativity. If we knew everything, life would be dull. Wonder and imagination bring joy, making the world a more fascinating place to live in.

Appreciating Life’s Beauty and Moments

• I am always sorry when pleasant things end. (p.46)

• I always say good night to the things I love, just as I would to people.

• I am so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers. It would be terrible if we just skipped from September to November. (pp.234-235)

 Life is filled with beautiful moments that pass too quickly. Cherishing the things we love, from seasons to small rituals, brings comfort and happiness. Even simple things, like saying goodnight or appreciating October, remind us to slow down and embrace the joy found in everyday life.

Life’s Challenges and Perspectives

• We can’t get through this world without our share of trouble. (p.106)

• You may not get the things themselves; but nothing can prevent you from having the fun of looking forward to them. (p.184)

• Blessed are they who expect nothing for they shall not be disappointed, but I think it would be worse to expect nothing than to be disappointed. (p.184)

• That’s the worst of growing up, and I’m beginning to realize it. The things you wanted so much when you were a child don’t seem half so wonderful to you when you get them. (p.443)

 Difficulties are unavoidable, but expectations shape how we experience them. 
Hope keeps life interesting, even if dreams remain unfulfilled. Disappointment 
is better than expecting nothing at all. Growing up changes how we value our 
desires, but looking forward to something can bring joy even before achieving it.

Kindness, Generosity, and Human Connection

• The other half will taste twice as sweet to me if I give some to her. It’s delightful to think I have something to give her. (p.175)

• A little ‘appreciation’ sometimes does quite as much good as all the conscientious ‘bringing up’ in the world. (p.367)

 Kindness and appreciation have a profound impact. Sharing with others makes experiences sweeter, while a small act of gratitude can mean more than strict upbringing. Giving and receiving kindness strengthens relationships, creating a sense of fulfillment. Generosity and recognition can bring happiness to both giver and receiver.

Ambition and the Pursuit of Dreams

• Oh, it’s delightful to have ambitions. I’m so glad I have such a lot. And there never seems to be any end to them. (p.527)

• Just as soon as you attain to one ambition you see another one glittering higher up still. It does make life so interesting. (p.527)

• The joy of sincere work and worthy aspiration and congenial friendship were to be hers; nothing could rob her of her birthright of fancy or her ideal world of dreams. (p.574)

 Ambition keeps life meaningful. No matter how many goals are achieved, new ones always appear, pushing us forward. The pursuit itself brings excitement. Hard work, dreams, and friendships are invaluable, and nothing can take away the joy of striving toward something greater and creating an ideal life.