Meaning of the quote

We are people who take action, not people who tell lies. This quote means that as active, hardworking people, it's not appropriate for us to be dishonest or make up stories. Instead, we should be truthful and focus on getting things done.

About William Goldman

William Goldman was an acclaimed American writer who won two Academy Awards for his screenwriting work on Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and All the President’s Men. He was also known for his popular novels like The Princess Bride and Marathon Man, which he later adapted for the big screen.

More about the author

More quotes from William Goldman

One way an author dies a little each day is when his books go out of print.

William Goldman

American novelist, screenwriter and playwright (1931-2018)

Nobody knows anything.

William Goldman

American novelist, screenwriter and playwright (1931-2018)

We are men of action, lies do not become us.

William Goldman

American novelist, screenwriter and playwright (1931-2018)

As far as the filmmaking process is concerned, stars are essentially worthless – and absolutely essential.

William Goldman

American novelist, screenwriter and playwright (1931-2018)

Yes, I am a failed playwright. I had three shows on Broadway by the time I was 30. They all flopped, and I fled.

William Goldman

American novelist, screenwriter and playwright (1931-2018)

There is one crucial rule that must be followed in all creative meetings. Never speak first. At least at the start, your job is to shut up.

William Goldman

American novelist, screenwriter and playwright (1931-2018)

Life isn’t fair. It’s just fairer than death, that’s all.

William Goldman

American novelist, screenwriter and playwright (1931-2018)

Being a screenwriter is not enough for a full creative life.

William Goldman

American novelist, screenwriter and playwright (1931-2018)

But this is life on earth, you can’t have everything.

William Goldman

American novelist, screenwriter and playwright (1931-2018)

The easiest thing to do on earth is not write.

William Goldman

American novelist, screenwriter and playwright (1931-2018)

Life is pain, highness. Anyone who tells you differently is selling something.

William Goldman

American novelist, screenwriter and playwright (1931-2018)

Never argue with your wife about hostility when she’s a certified Freudian.

William Goldman

American novelist, screenwriter and playwright (1931-2018)

You can never trust what you read.

William Goldman

American novelist, screenwriter and playwright (1931-2018)