Why are we born? We're born eventually to die, of course. But what happens between the time we're born and we die? We're born to live. One is a realist if one hopes.
Studs Terkel

I thought, if ever there were a time to write a book about hope, it's now.
Studs Terkel

I want a language that speaks the truth.
Studs Terkel

So people are ready. I feel hopeful in that sense.
Studs Terkel

Religion obviously played a role in this book and the previous book, too.
Studs Terkel

I want, of course, peace, grace, and beauty. How do you do that? You work for it.
Studs Terkel

With optimism, you look upon the sunny side of things. People say, 'Studs, you're an optimist.' I never said I was an optimist. I have hope because what's the alternative to hope? Despair? If you have despair, you might as well put your head in the oven.
Studs Terkel

I want people to talk to one another no matter what their difference of opinion might be.
Studs Terkel