215 quotes
People should be beautiful in every way—in their faces, in the way they dress, in their thoughts and in their innermost selves.
Uncle Vanya (1897)
It’s not a matter of old or new forms; a person writes without thinking about any forms, he writes because it flows freely from his soul.
The Seagull (1896)
A woman can only become a man’s friend in three stages: first, she’s an agreeable acquaintance, then a mistress, and only after that a friend.
Uncle Vanya (1897)
How easy it is, Doctor, to be a philosopher on paper, and how hard it is in life!
The Seagull (1896)
There should be more sincerity and heart in human relations, more silence and simplicity in our interactions. Be rude when you’re angry, laugh when something is funny, and answer when you’re asked.
You ask “What is life?” That is the same as asking “What is a carrot?” A carrot is a carrot and we know nothing more.
In countries where there is a mild climate, less effort is expended on the struggle with nature and man is kinder and more gentle.
Uncle Vanya (1897)
By nature servile, people attempt at first glance to find signs of good breeding in the appearance of those who occupy more exalted stations.
A Futile Occurrence or A Trivial Incident (1886)
Moscow is a city that has much suffering ahead of it.
To a heart transformed by love, it is a mandolin.
The Cherry Orchard (1904)
All of life and human relations have become so incomprehensibly complex that, when you think about it, it becomes terrifying and your heart stands still.
In the Cart or A Journey by Cart or The Schoolmistress (1897)
Everyone has the same God; only people differ.
The Duel (1891)
The world perishes not from bandits and fires, but from hatred, hostility, and all these petty squabbles.
Uncle Vanya (1897)
People who live alone always have something on their minds that they would willingly share.
About Love (1898)
If there's any illness for which people offer many remedies, you may be sure that particular illness is incurable, I think.
The Cherry Orchard (1904)
Exquisite nature, daydreams, and music say one thing, real life another.
In a Native Corner or At Home (1897)
Who but a stupid barbarian could burn so much beauty in his stove and destroy that which he cannot make?
Uncle Vanya (1897)
If you can’t distinguish people from lap-dogs, you shouldn’t undertake philanthropic work.
The Princess (1889)
Love, friendship, respect, do not unite people as much as a common hatred for something.
Note-Book of Anton Chekhov (1921)
The thirst for powerful sensations takes the upper hand both over fear and over compassion for the grief of others.
An Evil Night (1886)